ABOUT
UKIYO-E LOUNGE
"UKIYO-E LOUNGE" is a place of exchange where we freely explore the deep world of Japanese culture, now and in history, focusing on ukiyo-e, sometimes inviting professionals to share their insights.
We connects ukiyo-e enthusiasts from around the world, as well as those interested in Japanese culture, forming a community reminiscent of the "ren" of the Edo period.
Through the activities in the Lounge, we aim to deepen everyone's knowledge and understanding of ukiyo-e and engage in discussions about the future of ukiyo-e and Japanese culture, while sharing ideas with each other to create new ukiyo-e art.
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ESHI
Under the direction of the publisher, the “ESHI” (literally translates as “pictorial master”) artist draws the key design (original artwork) for Ukiyo-e.
Did you know that ukiyo-e is still being created today?
"There are artisans who have inherited the techniques still standing today"
Despite facing various challenges such as a decrease in work opportunities, lack of ideal crafting work environment, and a shortage of successors with only a handful of carvers and printers, ukiyo-e craftsmen continue to pass down their skills, which have been preserved for over 400 years.
Meet HANMOTO
Ukiyo-e epitomizes collaborative artistry. Crafted by four artisans - the artist, carver, printer, and publisher - it embodies synergy beyond individual skills. Under the publisher's guidance, ukiyo-e is meticulously produced through specialized contributions. Using eco-friendly materials like Japanese paper and cherry woodblocks, it represents a unique Japanese tradition.
HORISHI
Upon receiving the key design, the carver first completes the key block (a block with only the outline carved) and then proceeds to separate the composition into different colors, and carve a dedicated woodblock for each color (“color block”).
PATH TO THE BEGINNING
To become a ukiyo-e craftsman, one must apprentice under a master to inherit their techniques, spending thousands of hours to master a single skill. They invest time in things that cannot be expedited, immersing themselves in a flow of time similar to that of centuries ago.
However, the "now" of ukiyo-e craftsmen is also facing various challenges such as a decrease in work opportunities and issues in the workplace environment. There is also a shortage of successors, with only nine carvers and thirty printers, creating a crisis in the survival of this long cherished tradition.
We have found hope in the new technology called "DAO," reminiscent of the Edo period's "ren" groups, and we aim to leverage it to provide opportunities for artisans to thrive through online work.
