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Events - 11.20.2024

Curator Talk | The Spirit of Japanese Craftsmen and Nature

Left: Closeup of trees in a forest / Top-right: Japanese lumber milling / Bottom-right: Two carpenters sawing a log

Date

11.20.2024 (Wed.)

Time

7:00 PM – 8:15 PM

Location

JAPAN HOUSE Salon, Level 5

Fee

Free

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Join us for an in-depth presentation on the timeless craft of Japanese carpentry, where traditional techniques and spiritual beliefs converge. Mr. Marcelo Nishiyama, Associate Director with the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, and curator of the new exhibition “Masters of Carpentry: Melding Forest, Skill, and Spirit” will offer a deep dive into the philosophy and practices that define this unique art form.

In his talk, Nishiyama will introduce key aspects of daiku culture, ranging from the deep reverence for nature and the Japanese forest that informs their craft, to more detailed explorations of carpenters’ tools and kigumi (wood joinery) techniques, to the distinct practices of dōmiya daiku (shrine and temple carpentry) and sukiya daiku (teahouse carpentry).

The classic maxim “God is in the details” resonates deeply with the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship, and Nishiyama will delve into the profound respect for nature that guides Japanese carpenters, who are influenced by animistic beliefs that view every tree as a living entity. Guests will learn how these values shape the careful selection of materials, ensuring that each piece of wood is chosen with deep consideration for the environment, its specific use, and the longevity of the structure it will support.

Nishiyama’s presentation will also shed light on two types of carpentry prominently featured in the exhibition – the time-honored work of the shrine and temple builders, the dōmiya daiku, and the intricate practices of sukiya carpenters, who specialize in the construction of traditional Japanese tea houses. From the meticulous selection of wood to the refined techniques that bring these spaces to life, the audience will gain insight into the artistry that has been passed down through generations of master craftsmen, and will also get the chance to ask questions in a post-talk Q&A.

Don’t miss this special occasion to hear the curatorial vision behind one of JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles’ most anticipated exhibitions of the year, and find inspiration in the beauty and innovation of this enduring tradition. 

The gallery will close at 7:00 PM. We encourage you to visit the exhibition prior to the start of the program.

Program Outline

*Subject to change

• 6:30 PM | Doors open
• 7:00 PM | Opening remarks
• 7:10 PM | Presentation
• 8:00 PM | Audience Q&A

About the Speaker

© Manggha Museum of Japanese Art & Technology

Marcelo Nishiyama is a curator specializing in architectural history and design at The Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum (TCTM). He has curated an array of exhibitions based on research in the field of building technology. His work covers a wide range of subjects, including carpentry and tools, blade making and the art of sakan (Japanese plasterwork), as well as the latest building techniques such as Cross-laminated timber (CLT). He has recently curated exhibitions on behalf of TCTM at the Manggha Museum (Poland) and the Maison de la Culture du Japon à Paris (France).

Related Exhibition

Dates

11.20.2024 (Wed.) – 01.22.2025 (Wed.)

Hours

Mon. – Fri. | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sat. – Sun.  | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Closed

Thanksgiving Day 11.28.2024 (Thu.)
Holiday 12.25.2024 (Wed.)

Location

JAPAN HOUSE Gallery, Level 2

Fee

Free

In Japan, a rich tradition of carpentry and wood craftsmanship has flourished over centuries, driven by imperial and sacred architecture. Daiku, the revered master carpenters, honor nature by sourcing wood harmoniously with the forest. Renowned for their precision, Japanese woodworking techniques embody a profound reverence for nature. Despite limited metal ore resources, Japanese craftsmen innovated world-class carpentry tools and joinery techniques. This exhibition honors Japanese carpenters, showcasing their tools and indispensable joinery techniques. A full-scale teahouse and recreated section of hip-and-gable roof from the temple at Yakushiji, exemplify the holistic relationship between forest, skill, and spirit, celebrating the enduring legacy of Japanese craftsmanship and its environmental harmony.

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