Over a century ago, the Japanese term Mingei was coined as a direct translation of “crafts for ordinary people” (minshuteki kogei). Mingei was adopted by philosopher and potter Yanagi Sōetsu to define a now-revered folk-craft movement in Japan that celebrated the beauty of anonymous, utilitarian craftsmanship. The movement valued simplicity, humility, and natural grace, challenging the Western focus on individual authorship and historical narrative. Despite the Mingei Movement's emphasis on anonymity, its movement has paradoxically elevated figures such as Yanagi Sōetsu, Bernard Leach, Kawai Kanjirō, and Hamada Shōji as its key proponents. This exhibition examines the tension between Mingei's ideals and its legacy, inviting viewers to closely examine how the ceramic objects of the Mingei Movement embody its philosophy and why their forms remain profoundly beautiful today.
Dai Ichi Arts is delighted to present a curated selection of significant ceramic, textile, and painted works by the pioneers of the Mingei Movement in 20th century Japan on the occasion of Asia Week New York. Exhibited artists include Kawai Kanjiro, Hamada Shoji, Bernard Leach, Shimaoka Tatsuzo, Murata Gen, Munakata Shiko, Serizawa Keisuke, and others.
