HIKOJU MAKIE Japanese Lacquer Art With Takashi Wakamiya

Talk
Free admission. All are welcome. No registration required.
Master Takashi Wakamiya will speak on the history and development of Japanese lacquerware, which first became known to the West during the Meiji period (1868–1912). The use of lacquer in Japan dates back at least 12,600 years, based on the excavation of a lacquer tree branch from an archaelogical site in Fukui prefecture. In 2004, Wakamiya formed the Hikoju Makie Studio, which is based on the traditional Japanese form of arts and crafts workshop. Wakamiya is responsible for drafting the initial plans for each work, and then a range of 40 master craftsmen construct each piece based on their individual expertise. Artists in the Hikoju Makie studio are renowned for their knowledge of traditional lacquer techniques, as well as their ability to develop modern production processes.

Workshop
Cost: $100
Limit: 20
The morning talk will be followed by an afternoon workshop. Master Takashi Wakamiya will demonstrate the technique of “Chinkin” – carving designs into a lacquered surface using a very sharp chisel before inlaying with gold leaf or powder. Participants can bring their own design with them to produce a 12 cm x 12 cm panel.

Registration: Please contact Elena Cheung at [email protected] or 2241 5512.

Speaker
As a lacquer master, Wakamiya Takashi produces artistic lacquer work while also serving as director for the Hikoju Makie studio. This group of craftsmen designs innovative art objects based on the inheritance of traditional designs and motifs. Wakamiya also tirelessly promotes lacquerware throughout Asia and the world market.