JAPAN 47 ARTISANS
The creative process of artisans from each of the 47 provinces, redefining ancient Japanese techniques.
Top view of handmade tableware and design pieces (2019-04-22/2019-07-25) by Japan House São PauloJAPAN HOUSE São Paulo
JAPAN 47 ARTISANS
Curated by the Japanese designer Kenmei Nagaoka, from D&DEPARTMENT PROJECT, JAPAN 47 ARTISANS combines design, craftsmanship, contemporaneity and tradition.
The second floor of the cultural center is the setting for discoveries originating from a contemporary Japan that never abandons its traditions, to be revealed through its characteristics, skills, and sensitivities, by means of pieces crafted by artisans from the 47 prefectures that make up Japan.
Memories, materials
and techniques from many centuries of knowledge.
JAPAN 47 ARTISANS offers a comprehensive overview of handcrafted works in modern Japan, featuring items that reflect the unique stories and characteristics of each province—often incorporating traditional designs, sometimes even reinterpreting or subverting them.
At first glance, the items may appear distant from traditional regional styles; however, the artisans’ creations are often rooted in memories of their homeland, using materials and techniques passed down through centuries of knowledge.
“With the history and atmosphere of each region as a backdrop—including traditional crafts and local industries—these artisans skillfully blend their own creativity with the needs of society, expressing themselves through containers and utensils,” remarks Kenmei Nagaoka. The selection of pieces emphasizes that design is not about unrestrained consumption, but about valuing quality objects that carry meaning and tell a story.
Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu and Okinawa on display
To help convey their unique features and stories, the pieces in the exhibition are organized into five groups representing the geographic regions of Japan: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu and Okinawa.
“The exhibition offers a visual overview of Japan’s 47 prefectures, conveyed through contemporary objects that adhere to traditional precepts, whether in technique or choice of materials.” It is yet another example of the harmony—so essential to Japanese culture—between past and present,” says Japan House São Paulo Cultural Director Natasha Barzaghi Geenen.
Appreciation and respect
The exhibition JAPAN 47 ARTISANS deepens the understanding of contemporary Japan while highlighting the appreciation and respect that Japanese culture holds for its ancient knowledge and ever-evolving techniques.
Click play!
Watch the lecture 'Contemporary Crafts from Japan,' which covers the details of the exhibition, focusing on the production processes:
*Event coordinated by Mitsuko Matsuzoe, Vice President of D&DEPARTMENT PROJECT, who is dedicated to researching the unique characteristics of Japan’s prefectures.
Japan House São Paulo
Avenida Paulista, 52
Bela Vista – São Paulo/SP
Telefone: +55 11 3090-8900
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