Welcome to The Extra, a fortnightly newsletter of complimentary stories — that's right, free for...
 

Welcome to The Extra, a fortnightly newsletter of complimentary stories — that's right, free for all to read — curated from The Japan Times archives.

In this edition, we turn our attention to the timeless elegance of Japanese craftsmanship and those helping keep it alive.

 
 

Crafted for collaboration

In an era of mass production, some of the world’s biggest brands are turning to centuries-old Japanese techniques — and the artisans behind them — to create something truly lasting. (Johann Fleuri, 2022).

 
 
 
 
 

Old traditions, new lives

Some non-Japanese craftsworkers have found that embracing centuries-old artforms and techniques has reshaped not only their practice but also their worldview. But for lacquerware artist Suzanne Ross, that world was shaken — figuratively and literally — by the devastating Noto Peninsula earthquake of 2024. (Kathryn Wortley, 2020; Kathleen Benoza, 2024).

 
 
 
 
 

From roofs to roots

Drawn by more than just craft, Haruo Nishio found meaning — and a home — through thatching in the Kyoto countryside. (Mara Budgen, 2023).

 
 

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