When
Sun, May 19, 2024
Fee
$140
Times
Workshop #1: 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Workshop #2: 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Description
Kintsugi is the ancient Japanese art of mending pottery… transforming a once broken vessel into a work of art by highlighting the fractures with precious metal powder such as gold or silver – reviving the piece with newfound beauty and purpose. The traditional kintsugi method utilizes urushi, a natural lacquer that has been used in Asia for thousands of years. This method takes lots of training and practice to master, and months to complete due to the delicate nature of urushi.
In this hands-on workshop, we will practice a modern kintsugi method instead, using a new type of urushi that is faster drying, with synthetic adhesive and putty that will allow students to experience this artistic process in shortened form. Participants will create a beautiful new work of art that is their very own, and can be taken home that day. The workshop will also educate about the history, culture, and concept of kintsugi and urushi, and the differences between traditional and modern kintsugi methods.
Details
- All the tools and materials for mending will be provided.
- Participants will need to bring a broken (but not shattered) vessel to mend.
- The vessel must be broken into no more than 4-5 pieces.
- Must be glazed.
- No glass or wood, please.
- If you don’t have a suitable vessel to mend, you can purchase one from the instructor for $5 (must contact instructor in advance of workshop). If you have any questions, you may contact the instructor at miyasilversmith@gmail.com
Take advantage of this special opportunity. The instructor has discounted the workshop rate to align with JACCC's values and purpose of sharing Japanese culture with the broader community.
Purchase a Kit
If you want to continue kintsugi mending at home, you may purchase a modern kintsugi kit from the instructor for $50 (optional), which is not included in the workshop fee.
- Limited quantities will be available for purchase during the workshop until supplies last.
- You may contact the instructor in advance (miyasilversmith@gmail.com) if you would like to reserve a kit to purchase.
Virtual Exhibition
Explore THE KINTSUGI SPIRIT: Virtual Exhibition, a body of completed works interpreting kintsugi through various artistic disciplines, from music to dance, visual art to film. JACCC commissioned this virtual exhibition in the Fall of 2022.
Things to Know
About the Artist
Miya Smith is a kintsugi artist and metalsmith. Born and raised in Japan, she has deep knowledge of Japanese history and culture from her training in tea ceremony, ikebana and brush calligraphy.
In her own art practice, Miya fabricates silver and gold jewelry, and mends vessels using traditional kintsugi methods. She also has taught modern kintsugi workshops across North America, at universities, churches, non-profit organizations, luxury resorts and corporate events. She is a certified facilitator of Academy Kintsugi, and a former artist in residence at Saddleback Church. Miya resides in Orange County, CA with her husband and their dog, and has 2 grown children.
You can see her work and inquire about commissioning pieces on Instagram @miyasilversmith.
Parking
Paid parking is available nearby at Joe's Auto Parks/Sho Tokyo on 350 East 2nd Street for $15 (rates may vary). Metered parking in Little Tokyo is also available and free after 8 pm.