Origin of Artisians

Galerie Taménaga Kyoto is delighted to announce that from September 28th to November 4th, we will be holding an exhibition titled “ORIGINES ARTISANALES” introducing the works of five talented artists, focusing on the traditional Japanese craft of lacquer art.

The distinction between craft and art is often debated. According to the Kojien dictionary,　“craftwork is a creation that includes artistic elements.” However, typically, craftworks are associated with functional objects used in everyday life, whereas fine art emphasizes aesthetic and conceptual expression.

This exhibition presents artists whose works are deeply influenced by lacquer techniques. These artists, having devoted years of their lives to mastering these methods, are often placed within a blurred classification between craft and art. Yet, the works featured here are distinctly, uniquely, art. Through inheriting and honing craftsmanship traditions, each piece presented reflects the artist’s personal visions and sensibilities, conveyed through an innovative form of artistic expression.

For these artists, lacquer techniques deriving from craftsmanship are inextricably linked to their artistic expression. Neglecting the precision of process and methods in the use of lacquer would compromise the longevity of their works, diminishing their value to collectors and museums. Mastery of these techniques is thus essential, ensuring the preservation of their art and enabling continuity of artistic expression that sets these works from both traditional crafts and other forms of art. We hope this exhibition highlights the profound creativity that emerges from these time-honored techniques, inviting viewers to appreciate the diverse fusion of artistic expression and technical craftsmanship in each piece.