The loss of the 110 made-to-order pieces lovingly assembled by collectors Arthur and Evelyn Krosnick grieved them terribly, so Nakashima agreed to replace the entire collection, down to the 12 wooden place mats he had given the Krosnicks as a Christmas present.

FORBES: Trees with souls

In recent days Japanese media have been dutifully and solemnly carrying memorials and documentaries on the disaster, which are today reaching a crescendo of often mind-numbing pathos as the loss of life and property, and the turmoil caused in so many lives, is recounted and grieved.

FORBES: Connect

"People had worked so hard for the show, and to have it overshadowed like that people were deeply grieved and angry, " says Whitson.

FORBES: Californians Screamin'