Author - Ryuji Mitani
Crafts, and Then – Ryuji Mitani
For quite some time, handcrafting has existed as a form of self-expression. Utsuwa, however, was never an art form that could exist on its own, as a vessel cannot fulfill its role without both someone to cook and another to eat. Its final form emerges through connection, not just a one-way interaction.I’ve taken this text as an opportunity to reflect on and reconsider these vessels that exist…
Crafts, and Then | Exhibition Opening Remarks
On the occasion of the exhibition Crafts, and Then at Nalata Nalata – I have been creating vessels for use, so that they do not make too much of a statement. Half for serving food and half for the people who…
1981-2021 | Forty Year Timeline of Persona Studio
Stepping into Ryuji Mitani’s studio and home in Matsumoto for the first time was a profound experience for us. After observing an urushi demonstration, we had a chat…
1981-2021 | Exhibition Opening Remarks
Hello everyone in New York. It has been a long, difficult time due to COVID-19, but now I am happy to hear that people in New York are gradually returning to normal life, like enjoying…
Blurring Boundaries | Exhibition Statement
In this Journal entry, we present Part II of a two part guest series by Ryuji Mitani. View Part I here. As we eagerly anticipate our upcoming exhibition, Blurring…
What is Seikatsu Kogei?
Seikatsu Kogei is a Japanese term that has become part of our lexicon ever since we began working with some of the people at the forefront of this movement,…