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Artisan's Touch: A Journey Through Japan's Enduring Craft
11 Dec
Summary
- Exhibition showcases over 2,000 objects from 100 artisans.
- Traditional Japanese crafts like lacquerware and metalwork endure.
- Curator traveled Japan for two years to document thriving artisan network.
A captivating exhibition at Japan House, London, illuminates the resilience of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, presenting a vibrant contrast to the perceived dominance of AI. The show features an extensive collection of over 2,000 meticulously crafted items, representing the skills of more than 100 artisans. These objects range from intricately carved wooden trays to unique vessels made from petrified leather, each piece a testament to ancient techniques.
The exhibition is the result of a two-year odyssey by curator Nagata Takahiro, who traversed Japan to document the lives and experiences of craftspeople. His journey revealed a robust and interconnected network of artisans, many of whom are actively using modern platforms to showcase their work and connect with a global audience, proving that traditional crafts are far from obsolete.
Showcasing concepts like 'anbai' (balance) and 'ibitsusa' (cherished irregularity), the exhibition celebrates the inherent beauty and expressiveness of human-made objects. Short films provide intimate glimpses into the artisans' daily lives and creative processes, further emphasizing how place and personal touch shape these timeless creations, demonstrating that craft remains intrinsically tied to human existence.
