"The Soul of Tools" at Traditional Crafts Exhibition WAZA 2018
From the archive, February 16, 2018: 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
I was 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, the "Four Treasures of the Study"—brush, ink, paper, and inkstone—are not merely objects; they are extensions of the body, partners for carrying emotion. Without the craftsman, the artist cannot exist. I took part in a special talk event and demonstration to explore this symbiotic relationship.
A Dialogue with Master Craftsmen: Akama Inkstone, Toyohashi Brush, Awa Washi
On stage, I shared the moment with craftsmen representing each region and their "stationery treasures":
- Akama Inkstone (Yamaguchi Pref.): the friction and texture of the stone that grinds the ink.
- Toyohashi Brush (Aichi Pref.): the resilience and life within the animal bristles.
- Awa Washi (Tokushima Pref.): the warmth and absorbency of handmade paper.
Hearing the history and dedication behind each tool, I wrote with them in real time. The friction of the stone, the spring of the bristles, the warm absorbency of handmade paper—each tool clearly changed the expression of the calligraphy.
When the Making Hand and the Writing Hand Become One
Without craftsmen, a calligrapher could not exist. In the moment when the "making hand" and the "writing hand" became one, I glimpsed the very essence of Japanese traditional culture.
The heart of the craftsman who perfects a tool for its user, and the heart of the writer who tries to answer that tool—being present where the two met was also a chance to look anew at my own calligraphy. My thanks to everyone who joined us, and to the wonderful craftsmen.
Records of talk events and lectures are gathered on the TALK SHOW page.
For inquiries about talk events or demonstrations, please feel free to contact me.
