Furuya Yoko (古屋容子), a distinguished kintsugi master and instructor, is the driving force behind the International Kintsugi Association. With a career spanning nearly two decades, Furuya has dedicated her life to mastering and teaching the ancient Japanese art of kintsugi, a technique that repairs broken pottery using lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum.
A Journey Rooted in Tradition
Furuya Yoko's journey began in 2005 under the tutelage of the renowned maki-e master Makoto Koike. Immersing herself in the traditional techniques of lacquer, maki-e, and kintsugi, she was drawn deeply into the world of Japanese craftsmanship. Her unwavering passion for this ancient art form led her to start her practice as a kintsugi master in 2009. The Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 significantly increased the demand for repairing cherished items, inspiring Furuya to share her invaluable knowledge through teaching. In 2021, she established the International Kintsugi Association, with the mission to preserve and spread the art of kintsugi worldwide.
Lacquer, the essential material for kintsugi, has long been cherished in Japan for its elegance, beauty, and strength as an adhesive and decorative medium. Furuya is profoundly inspired by and respectful of the wisdom and efforts of her predecessors, who have elevated its artistic quality to unparalleled heights. Her philosophy emphasizes the importance of using things with care. Instead of throwing items away, she advocates for repairing and continuing to use them, thereby honoring their history and significance.
Furuya Yoko's journey is deeply rooted in a profound admiration for tradition and a dedication to passing on its beauty to future generations. Her work is a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of Japanese culture, connecting the past and the present, and inspiring a global appreciation for the timeless art of kintsugi.
Exhibitions and Collaborations
Furuya Yoko's works have been exhibited in several prestigious galleries across Japan. Here is a list of her exhibitions:
Tokyo, Otowa Gallery, May 2024
Shizuoka, Gallery Ri Kasho, March 2024
Shizuoka, Matsuzakaya Shizuoka Store BlancCUBE, February 2024
Shizuoka, Artana Kura, October 2023
Yamanashi, Gallery Abend, September 2023
Tokyo, Gallery Slowboat, June 2023
Shizuoka, Numazu Goyotei, November 2022
Shizuoka, Gallery Art Space Aoki, March 2020
Yamanashi, Kofu City Designated Cultural Property Fujimura Memorial Hall, December 2018
Her collaborations extend to jewelry companies, interior design firms, and architectural companies, reflecting the versatility and timeless appeal of kintsugi. Additionally, Furuya has authored a book titled "Kintsugi: Invitation to the Handwork of Kintsugi (Mending with Gold) For Beginners," available on Amazon. This book serves as an excellent introduction to the beautiful art form for beginners.
Philosophy and Influence
Kintsugi is more than a repair technique; it embodies the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, finding beauty in imperfection. Furuya's approach to kintsugi emphasizes not only restoring the functional aspect of broken pottery but also enhancing its aesthetic value. She believes in preserving the original beauty of the piece while highlighting its flaws, turning them into unique features that tell a story of resilience and transformation.
The Necessity of Lacquer Repair
Lacquer, a natural material cherished in Japan for centuries, plays a crucial role in kintsugi. Its elegance, beauty, and strength make it indispensable for the restoration of cultural assets and everyday items. Furuya stresses the importance of understanding and preserving this craft, which has seen a decline in recent years. By repairing with lacquer, we not only connect with a rich cultural heritage but also contribute to a more sustainable world. She strongly advocates for the mindful use of items, encouraging people to repair rather than discard them, thereby promoting sustainability and honoring the craftsmanship of the past.
Passing on the Legacy
Through the International Kintsugi Association, Furuya is committed to training the next generation of kintsugi masters and instructors. The association offers specialized knowledge and techniques, ensuring that the art of lacquer repair continues to thrive. Outreach activities, including repairs, lectures, speeches, and classes, aim to spread the original kintsugi technique globally, fostering an appreciation for this beautiful tradition.
A Message to the World
Furuya hopes to convey the significance of kintsugi through her creations. She wants people worldwide to recognize the wisdom and beauty of this technique, which not only restores broken items but also breathes new life into them. By embracing the philosophy of kintsugi, we can find strength in our imperfections and create a more harmonious and sustainable future.
Furuya Yoko's dedication to kintsugi is a testament to the enduring power of this ancient Japanese art form. Her work bridges the past and the present, connecting generations through the timeless beauty of lacquer repair. As she continues to inspire and educate, the legacy of kintsugi will undoubtedly flourish, enriching lives with its profound wisdom and beauty.
Comments