Handmade in Japan: The Pursuit of Perfection in Traditional Crafts

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Description

Discover the exceptional artistry and rich traditions being kept alive by Japanese artisans in the twenty-first century. In an era where global interest in handmade, small-batch products is heightening as a response to mass production, Handmade in Japan takes a look inside the workshops of the country's artisans, revealing their endless pursuit of excellence, and what it means to dedicate one's life to the stewardship of irreplaceable cultural heritage. International readers with an appreciation for handmade processes using sustainable materials will find inspiration in the exploration of craft ecosystems, such as the harvesting of natural lacquer in Iwate. Likewise, those who admire skill and beauty will enjoy discovering the lengths these makers go to in ensuring every product is perfect.

Reviews

"a powerful volume" -- FRIZZIFRIZZI-- "frizzifrizzi, 07.10.2020"
"an informative journey across Japan, rather than an encyclopedic volume of crafts." -- THE JAPAN TIMES-- "The Japan Times, 10/24/20"
"An elegant, inspiring book" -- BOOKSELLER-- "Bookseller, 02.06.20"
"It's hard to put your finger on why it's so soothing to page through HANDMADE IN JAPAN (...). The Tokyo-based photographer Irwin Wong captures intimate moments of creation that satisfy the reader's cravings for travel, escape and tactile design." -- THE NEW YORK TIMES-- "The New York Times (US), 03.12.2020"
"Photographer Irwin Wong documents the rich traditions of Japanese craftsmen" -- TOKYO WEEKENDER-- "Tokyo Weekender, 24.09.2020"
"Taking us through the regions and highlighting the handicrafts associated with them (...) we get an insight into one of travel's great cultural experiences." -- WANDERLUST-- "Wanderlust (UK), May/June 2021"

Author Bio

Irwin Wong is an editorial and commercial photographer based in Tokyo. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, he moved to Japan in 2005. He developed an interest in craftsmanship after photographing several artisans for work. His clients include Apple, The Washington Post, Forbes, and Nike.