In the realm of artistic expression, Dentou Kogei [伝統工芸], often translated as Japanese traditional arts and crafts, unfolds a narrative rich in cultural significance. Let us guide you through the profound ethos behind these meticulous creations that seamlessly blend human and nature with a concept of Shizen [自然].
The Arts and Crafts Movement In The West
In the United Kingdom, where the Industrial Revolution took place, there was an abundance of poorly manufactured products due to industrialization. William Morris, concerned about this situation, initiated The Arts and Crafts Movement in the late 19th century. Speaking of the Arts and Crafts movement in Japan, Yanagi Soetsu led the Mingei Movement [民藝/民芸 運動] in 1925. As ZESSEE, we differentiate Mingei and Japanese traditional arts and crafts as Soetsu believed that the beauty of Mingei items lies in the functionality-driven, purposeful designs created by anonymous craftsmen. Our curatorial philosophy aligns more with Morris' where he emphasized the beauty of items as a result of artisans' artistic endeavors.
ZESSEE redefines Kogei beyond institutional categorization
Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry defines Dentou Kougei by the following five criteria: Primarily utilized in daily life; the main part of the manufacturing process is manual; manufactured through traditional techniques (The Association for the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries further defines tradition a history spanning over a century); the product is manufactured using traditionally used raw materials as the main raw material; and a considerable number of people in a certain geographical area engage in manufacturing.
ZESSEE's mission is to contextualize artisans' philosophical and conceptual visions and communicate them to global audiences beyond the institutional criteria that has a heavy focus on functionality and materiality. As a ZESSEE's curator and a founder of Nippon Collection, I have interviewed more than 30 artisans throughout Japan, spanning a variety of categories of Dentou Kougei including weaving, dyeing, lacquerware, Washi paper, and ceramics. This led us to a single theme that Japanese artisans share across categories -- a uniquely Japanese concept: Shizen [自然].
The Artisan's Dialogue with Nature
In alignment with the concept of Shizen, where humans are considered an integral part of nature, Dentou Kougei in Japan utilize materials borrowed from the natural world. Artisans, adept at listening to and interpreting these materials, embark on a collaborative journey with nature to create expressions that resonate. In this process, the conceptuality of the creator may appear subtle, as the artisan channels the intrinsic beauty and artistic essence found in nature.
Japanese art finds beauty within nature, a concept deeply ingrained in the Japanese psyche. Through haiku, craftsmanship, color coordination in traditional attire, and the meticulous artistry of bonsai and Japanese gardens, the Japanese people carve out the universe's art on a human scale, fostering admiration for its beauty.
The artisan's ability to discern the voice of materials and bring forth their expressions contributes to the timeless allure of Japanese traditional arts and crafts. Visit ZESSEE's Fine Art Procurement page to delve into the world of Kogei, we reflect on the intricate dance between the artisan and nature.
Author
Kaoru Kuribayashi
ZESSEE Co-Founder
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