Mingei movement
The Mingei movement (民芸運動, Mingei-undō, literally "folk craft movement") is a Japanese cultural and artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century. Founded by philosopher Sōetsu Yanagi, potter Shōji Hamada, and artist Kanjirō Kawai, it sought to revive and celebrate traditional Japanese folk crafts made by anonymous artisans.
Philosophy and Goals
[edit]The Mingei movement values:
- The beauty of everyday, utilitarian objects created by unknown craftsmen.
- The use of natural materials and traditional techniques passed down through generations.
- Simplicity, functionality, and an honest expression of regional and cultural identity.
- Resistance to industrial mass production and loss of local craftsmanship.
Yanagi articulated these ideas in his influential book, The Unknown Craftsman, which helped introduce Mingei ideals both in Japan and internationally.
Influence on Japanese Crafts
[edit]Mingei profoundly influenced various traditional crafts, especially:
- Japanese pottery, including famous styles such as Mashiko ware, Bizen ware, and Shigaraki ware.
- Textile arts, woodworking, lacquerware, and other artisanal objects.
Potters like Shōji Hamada and his student Tatsuzō Shimaoka embodied Mingei principles by producing functional, beautiful ceramics that emphasized craftsmanship and local materials.
Legacy
[edit]The movement helped preserve many endangered crafts during Japan’s rapid modernization in the 20th century. Its influence persists today in museums, craft fairs, and artisan communities that continue to honor traditional methods.
