“1981-2021 40 Years of Studio Woodworking” by Ryuji Mitani: Post-Exhibition Reflections

“Looking back, I met Ryuji Mitani over 15 years ago. At that time, Arts & Science carried mainly imported crafts, and I recall that it was a butter dish that I had commissioned then from Mr. Mitani that served as the starting point of my professional association with Japanese artists and craftspeople. I think that what attracts me to his crafts is his ability to create objects that people actually need and use and thus add value to their lives. Think, create, and use – this leads to a self-contained and convincing end result.

Outside of Japan, there are only a few artists who make things with function in mind. Most of Mitani’s crafts are similar to “products” that are made in the workshop, yet I think that the process whereby you can think, create with your own hands, and take on almost every aspect of creation by yourself is unique to Japan.

Over the past few years, I have been skeptical about the trend of attaching status to buying and owning crafts “made by somebody famous”; however, if it serves to provide the younger generation with greater opportunities to interact with and reaffirm the value of crafts, then I find that aspect to be very positive. I sincerely hope that the Japanese craft scene flourishes from this point forward, and Arts & Science will continue to take a neutral position, to serve as a bridge connecting the thoughts of the creator and the needs of the user.”

This solo exhibition, a retrospective of the work of woodwork artist Ryuji Mitani spanning his 40-year career and centered upon related publications, showcased “real life crafts,” which Arts & Science continues to be a strong proponent of. We are currently planning a second installation of Ryuji Mitani’s work to be held in December, 2022. Please look forward to our ongoing collaborative exhibitions.

Photos by Yasushi Ichikawa