Saruyama: Yuichi Takemata Exhibition “Tsukuroi” on Metalwork and Bamboo Craft from Kanazawa, Themed on “Restoration”

A Spirit of Cherishing Objects and a Unique Japanese Sensibility for Finding Beauty in Repair

Kanazawa Metalworker Yuichi Takemata's Exhibition "Tsugui" Opens

This is another "Tsugui" exhibition. This time, we've invited Kanazawa metalworker Yuichi Takemata to explore the theme of "repair." From antique ceramics to lighting fixtures, he's been asked to add his own subtle touches under the guise of mending. We will also be showcasing his personal works. We hope you'll visit.

Text by Shu Saruyama (Saruyama)

Elements of Repair and Aesthetics

When one hears "Tsugui," the mind might first turn to "Kintsugi," a technique primarily used for ceramics. It involves mending broken or chipped pieces with lacquer and adhesive, then tracing the seams with gold or silver. This transforms the repaired areas into delicate patterns, creating a charm distinct from that of a perfect object. It reflects a spirit of cherishing things and a uniquely Japanese sensibility that finds beauty even in repair. It is a fusion of repair and aesthetics.

Silver Lids Crafted for Old Pottery and Glass Vessels

For this fourth exhibition in our "Tsugui" series, we have invited Yuichi Takemata, a metalworker from Kanazawa. Takemata's approach to "Tsugui" involves adding his own touches in the best sense of the word. Moving beyond mere functional restoration, he imbues certain pieces with a decorative quality, mending them or adding lids. The objects, now imbued with a new life, feel like a collaboration between their original creators and Takemata himself.

In addition to these repaired pieces, we will also be exhibiting Takemata's personal works, including cutlery, tea caddies, and plates. Furthermore, we invite you to discover new items from the "ryo" cutlery series, which I also designed.

Exhibition View

Yuichi Takemata Exhibition "Tsugui"
Dates: October 22 (Mon) - October 28 (Sun), 2012
Saruyama
Wako Mansion 101, 3-12-46 Moto-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-3401-5935
Opening Hours: 13:00 - 18:00
Open daily during the exhibition period
http://guillemets.net/