Imaginal Crafts

National Crafts Museum

Finished

Artists

Junko Oki, Rui Sasaki, Keita Matsunaga, Mamoru Nakagawa, Mayu Nakata, Kengo Takahashi et al.

While paintings and sculptures can be enjoyed more by learning about the motifs and colors used, the background of their production, and the careers of the artists, it is sometimes said that it is difficult to understand the highlights of craft works and how to appreciate them. To be sure, since crafts involve a deep understanding of materials and associated techniques, people may tend to focus on “how this work was created” rather than on “what is being expressed.” However, many craftspeople also focus on themes such as their mental images and their relationships with society.

This exhibition features works by six artisans who present their productions as contemporary expressions. Embroiderer Junko Oki creates works with stitches on cloth as a process of inscribing traces of life, glass artist Rui Sasaki preserves memories of the land and nature in his works, and metalwork artist Kengo Takahashi focuses on the theme of “life and death” and “rebirth” in the present age. Mamoru Nakagawa, a metalwork artist and living national treasure, creates works in the realm of traditional crafts, transforming the landscapes of various countries into abstract patterns. Lacquer artist Mayu Nakata creates shared momentary scenes that captivate her heart. Ceramic artist Keita Matsunaga produces work using motifs that overlay his indelible images and geological formations that retain time.

Schedule

Sep 6 (Fri) 2024-Dec 1 (Sun) 2024

Opening Hours Information

Hours	9:30-17:30
Closed	Monday Open on September 16, 23, October 14 and November 4. Closed on September 17, 24, October 15 and November 5.

Fee

Adults ¥1000; University Students ¥800; High School Students ¥500; Junior High School Students and Under, Persons with Disability Certificates + 1 Companion free.
Free on November 3.

Website

https://www.momat.go.jp/craft-museum/en/exhibitions/559