Artisanal Production in Fast-Paced World
The world today is saturated with imitation, and people can't appreciate their surroundings as much as before. In the art world, concepts often overshadow the artwork itself, and everyone looks at the artworks for only 5 to 10 seconds in a museum. While in fashion, branding frequently masks the true quality of products, and the products last 3 to 5 months. In some countries, it is rare to find food untouched by chemicals thanks to mass production. As society normalizes the fast-paced industrialization, the authentic quietly disappears. Many craftspeople with traditions spanning over a century are left without successors, as these practices are often not financially sustainable because each production takes too much time to produce for mass and sell it cheaply. Yet, in a world overwhelmed by the fast-made products, supporting things that take patience and care to make become meaningful.
茶と絵 - Tea and Painting -
Japanese craftsmanship often serves dō (道)—the way of living and doing. For example, ceramists create works to serve the tea ceremony and meals, while swordsmiths craft blades for the art of swordsmanship. These carefully handcrafted objects are meant to be used, rather than displayed as symbols, as is often the case in Western art traditions. In this way, the use of the object itself becomes its symbol and representation.
The Japanese tea ceremony, rooted in the philosophy of Sen no Rikyu, is not merely about hosting guests; it is a practice of Zen in daily life. Through repeating simple gestures and seeking meaning in details, it cultivates inner calm. Like meditation, it is not always enjoyable at first, but over time, it brings deeper tranquility. A key aspect is accepting things as they are: the discomfort in your legs, the instructor’s guidance, the moment itself.
The concept behind my recent works (2025~) is deeply inspired by this spirit of acceptance and finding joy in small things. As a craft enthusiast, I apply this mindset to painting, allowing the act itself to become a source of joy. Every tiny brushstroke, every movement of water and pigment, becomes meaningful. After all, painting is a repetition of simple gestures that, together, create a larger picture.
