Learn the beautiful and healing Japanese art of Kintsugi, repairing broken pottery with gold or silver-coloured glues.
Learn the beautiful and healing Japanese art of Kintsugi, repairing broken pottery with gold or silver-coloured glues.
Traditional kintsugi
The traditional Japanese art uses a precious metal – liquid gold, liquid silver or lacquer dusted with powdered gold – to bring together the pieces of a broken pottery item and at the same time enhance the breaks. The technique consists in joining fragments and giving them a new, more refined aspect. Every repaired piece is unique, because of the randomness with which ceramics shatters and the irregular patterns formed that are enhanced with the use of metals.
The practice has a deeper philosophical meaning. The mended cracks become part of the object's design, reflecting symbolically an event in the life of that object, rather than the cause of its destruction. In practising this art-form, we can reflect on our own 'cracks' and 'bumps' and how we can incorporate these events into our life story, using our mind to repair our 'flaws' with beauty, creating precious scars.
This workshop
A contemporary method of kintsugi uses epoxy glue coloured with gold or silver, making this an easy process to replicate at home. We will use this method during this course. You can either bring with you your own precious pieces or enjoy using pieces provided at the course.
Who should attend this course?
Those looking for a new art form. Those with broken crockery who would like an intriguing new way to recycle these items.
What to bring
All materials are provided for this course including a bowl. If you prefer, you can bring your own small piece (broken or not) to break and repair. It needs to be a simple and small vessel.
About your tutor, Ema
Ema Frost has been a part of the Auckland art scene since 2010. Ema's artworks are inspired by her fascination and deep respect for the mystery and magic found in Māori and Japanese folklore.
Information and logo sourced from the Selwyn Community Education website.
