2015-2018

 

The ancient Japanese art form for the modern age

Kintsugi is the Japanese art of fixing broken pottery with lacquer dusted and mixed with gold or silver. This technique has been used by Japanese craftsmen since the late 15th century, as a creative solution to repairing objects. Rather than disguise the wears and tears of usage, Kintsugi celebrates the life and history of an object (similar to the wabi-sabi theory of embracing the flawed or imperfect). The striking gold lines signify the scars that come from life experiences, seeing the beauty of imperfection and finding new purpose despite aging and loss.

By practicing this form of Japanese traditional culture, we can learn to take care of a dear object with delicateness and love, with the marks of Kintsugi (having been repaired) and Keshiki (scenery) which gives a new look and added value. This ancient process is an embodiment of the philosophy of Mushin (no mind); by fully existing within the moment, of non-attachment and showing calmness amid changing conditions.

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