100th Anniversary of the Birth of Mingei

The Japanese word ‘mingei’ is literally translated as “crafts of the people” and was conceived through discussions of beauty in functional objects between philosopher Yanagi Soetsu (1889–1961) and potters Kawai Kanjiro (1890–1966) and Hamada Shoji (1894–1978) during a research trip in 1925. Marking the 100th anniversary of the term’s inception, this catalogue to a special exhibition introduces a range of works from individual artisans and artists who promoted the ‘mingei’ movement. In addition, it re-examines the special relationship between Kyoto and ‘mingei’ through works and materials of its makers and supporters, including pottery, textile, lacquerware, and wood.