About this Event
Join acclaimed Japanese urushi lacquer and maki-e artist Hakose Junichi for a live demonstration exploring the techniques, philosophy and resilience of Wajima-nuri, one of Japan’s most important lacquerware traditions.
Originating in Wajima on the north-western tip of the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, the craft of Wajima-nuri dates back to the 16th century and is renowned for its exceptional durability and refined beauty. Its production, encompassing woodworking, lacquering and decoration, involves more than one hundred individual steps carried out by specialist craftspeople. Objects made using these techniques are designed to be repaired and used for many years, even if cracked or chipped, embodying a philosophy of restoration and regeneration.
This philosophy has taken on renewed significance following the Noto Peninsula Earthquake on New Year’s Day 2024 which caused devastating damage to Wajima and its globally renowned lacquerware workshops. Despite these challenges, local artisans have continued their efforts to protect and pass on these techniques, working steadily towards recovery.
In this event, Hakose. an expert in both lacquering and decorative maki-e, demonstrates the preparation and application of urushi lacquer and the maki-e technique, in which designs are sprinkled with gold or silver powder to create a lustrous metallic finish. The demonstration is followed by an audience Q&A.
This event forms part of a wider programme which also includes kintsugi workshops on Thursday 5 and Friday 6 March and a display of Wajima lacquerware on the ground floor.
The event series is presented as part of the Spotlight on Local Japan Programme, organized in collaboration with JNTO, which accepts applications from potential collaborators based in Japan to co-create cultural events presenting Japan’s regional diversity at Japan House London.
Please note that filming and / or photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please or contact a member of the team on site.
About the speakers
Hakose Junichi
Hakose Junichi is an urushi (lacquer) artist from Wajima in Ishikawa Prefecture. In 1975, he apprenticed under maki-e master Tanaka Masaru. After five years of training, he went on to study with an undercoating lacquer specialist, mastering both lacquering and maki-e decorative techniques. Building on the techniques of Wajima-nuri lacquerware, Hakose has developed a distinctive style that combines technical precision with exceptional sensitivity. His work often features refined maki-e motifs inspired by classical Japanese patterns and themes drawn from nature. As one of Wajima’s leading contemporary artists, he has also collaborated with international luxury brands such as Christofle and Van Cleef & Arpels, bringing Japanese urushi culture to audiences around the world.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Japan House London, Kensington High Street, London, United Kingdom
USD 0.00
