Japanese Handicrafts Exhibition

An Asian indulgence was held at the Jordan museum, where past, present and function collided to produce a unique experience of Japanese life. Handcrafted objects made from a vast array of materials and techniques from across the whole of Japan were fused together to take one on a truly introspective journey that shed light on a fascinating culture and society.

HANDCRAFTED FORM – Traditions and Techniques 

We are surrounded by utilitarian craft objects that have been brought into being and nurtured within our daily lives. By making the most of the raw materials of each craft- ceramics, textiles, metal work, lacquer ware, wood and bamboo work, paper, etc and contriving to use the techniques appropriate to each, goods have been created that combine ease of use with beauty.

Following the industrial revolution in the west, Japan also saw the modernization of production during the Meiji era (1868- 1912). Through the introduction of machines, most of the craft objects that until then had been made by hand were replaced by mass- produced industrially manufactured goods. Alongside the mechanized production that occurred from the beginning of the Meij era, however, production of hand- made craft objects continued on a smaller scale in independent, regional workshops throughout Japan. While this workshop system fostered superior artisans, among those workshop artisans it also gave rise to individualistic, idiosyncratic craft artists.

Traditional materials and techniques, rooted in the climate and landscape of every region of Japan, produced both utilitarian craft objects made by the seasoned skills of artisans and art works richly imbued with the creativity of craft artists. Artisans and artists have influenced each other. This mutual influence has contributed to the depth and high quality of Japanese crafts as a whole.

This exhibition introduces hand crafted objects made from traditional materials with traditional techniques from all over japan. Representative objects designated as "Traditional Craft Objects" under the Japanese government's Traditional Manufactured Goods Law from the core of the exhibition, supplemented by works of craft artists.

Written by Kazuko lodate

Chief Curator

Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum