SCMA Conversations: Clay, Lacquer, Bamboo: Japanese Art in the Past and Present
Explore the stunning exhibition Crafting Worlds: Japanese Decorative Arts from the 18th through 21st Centuries with Clara Cho Wun Ma, Jane Chace Carroll Associate Curator of Asian Art, and student research assistant Josie Wong ‘26. Through close looking at Japanese lacquer, bamboo, and ceramics, you'll uncover the remarkable ways Japanese artisans have navigated—and continue to navigate—the delicate balance between honoring centuries-old traditions and forging bold new paths.
This special virtual program delves deep into Crafting Worlds, using select objects from the exhibition to reveal the compelling stories of artistic lineages, cultural identity, and the enduring power of handmade craft.
Watch this video with artist Gen Saratani (b. 1980) as he demonstrates hiramaki-e (flat sprinkled picture) and shares insights from his training under urushi masters Akira Taeda and Tomizo Saratani (b. 1949). Tomizo’s acclaimed work Gun’yu (Fish Swimming in a Shoal) is featured in Crafting Worlds at SCMA.
This event is part of SCMA Conversations: A series connecting audiences with SCMA’s collection. Explore art and spark discovery—no matter where you are.