Looking back to 2018, we revisit a fascinating dialogue held at the Tobu Department Store in Ikebukuro, delving into the roots of Japanese artistry.
The Beauty of Japan, Nestled in Daily Life
We were invited to appear at the “Traditional Crafts Exhibition WAZA 2018.” Under the theme “The Beauty of Japan Nestled in Life,” this event gathered the finest pottery, lacquerware, textiles, and stationery from across the archipelago.
For a calligrapher, tools are not merely objects; they are extensions of the body. Without the craftsman, the artist cannot exist. Chosho Yabe participated in a special talk event and demonstration to explore this symbiotic relationship.
A Dialogue with Master Craftsmen
The session featured a passionate exchange with the guardians of Japan’s “Stationery Treasures”:
- Akama Inkstone (Yamaguchi Pref.): Discussing the friction and texture of the stone that grinds the ink.
- Toyohashi Brush (Aichi Pref.): Exploring the resilience and life within animal bristles.
- Awa Washi (Tokushima Pref.): Celebrating the warmth and absorbency of handmade paper.
Through conversations and live demonstrations, we highlighted how the “soul of the maker” meets the “soul of the user” to create art. We thank everyone who joined us to celebrate the profound depth of Japanese craftsmanship.
Yabe Chosho Office
