Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Opening reception for 芸[Gei] : The Beauty of Ephemeral and Eternal at Contemporary Craft, September 13.


Contemporary Craft will host the exhibition 芸[Gei] : The Beauty of Ephemeral and Eternal from September 13, 2024 through January 18, 2025, featuring a host of Japanese and Japanese-American artists and performers. It begins with an Opening Reception on the 13th from 5:30 to 8:00 pm, free and open to the public.
芸[Gei]: The Beauty of Ephemeral and Eternal invites viewers to explore the captivating duality of Japanese Sogetsu Ikebana and craft, highlighting the profound cultural connections woven through these art forms. Ikebana (生け花, living flowers), the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement, captures the fleeting beauty of nature. Conversely, we celebrate the eternal through masterful craft objects. These objects embody enduring skill and meticulous attention to detail. From exquisite ceramics to intricate metal and wood sculptures, these crafts echo with the wisdom and patience of their makers, preserving techniques practiced over generations while celebrating individuality and collaboration.

 

Featured artists Tadao Arimoto, Yoko Sekino-Bové, Carol Kumata, and Miwa Neishi engage in dialogue with Sogetsu Pittsburgh, led by Reiko Nakajima and Atsumi Sewell. Embracing the notion of living sculpture in Sogetsu Ikebana, this juxtaposition prompts contemplation of time, materiality, processes, culture, and heritage. Ikebana celebrates simplicity and imperfection, while traditional crafts speak of a lineage committed to perfection and continuity, enriching our understanding of tradition and innovation.

 

芸[Gei] uncovers connective networks bridging natural forces with disciplined artistry. Through a community of hands and dedicated practice, these mycelial connections energize a diverse spectrum of artistic spirits. Join us in contemplating the harmony between impermanence and eternity, where fleeting blossoms and timeless crafts weave a narrative of Japan’s rich cultural tapestry—connecting past, present, and future.
Special events include:
Contemporary Craft is a gallery and creative space that broadly states its mission as "To engage the public in creative experiences through contemporary craft.." It is located at 5645 Butler St. in Lawrenceville (map).

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