This annual open-call exhibition, one of Japan’s largest, has been held since 1954 to promote and preserve traditional crafts. Spanning seven categories—ceramics, textiles, lacquerware, metalwork, wood and bamboo crafts, dolls, and other crafts—this year’s event featured 1,146 entries. The top honor, the Japan Kōgeikai President’s Award, was given to metal artist Satoshi Hara, also a faculty member at Kanazawa College of Art, for his flower vase Tetsuji Zōgan Kaki (Iron Inlay Flower Vase).
Following its Tokyo debut, the exhibition will tour Japan, bringing 345 selected works—including 16 award-winning pieces—to Fukuoka. Visitors can view creations ranging from those by nationally recognized Living National Treasures to emerging artists. Admission is free, and special commentary sessions by Living National Treasures and other artists will be held daily at 12:00 (and also at 15:00 on February 8 and 9).
Japan Kōgeikai President’s Award “Tetsuji Zōgan Kaki (鐵地象嵌花器)”
• 2/5 (Wed.) ~ 2/10 (Mon.)
• 10:00~19:00 (2/10: ~17:00)
• Free entry
• 9F Mitsukoshi Gallery, Fukuoka Mitsukoshi
• 2-5-35 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
• https://www.iwataya-mitsukoshi.mistore.jp/mitsukoshi/shops/art/
