Thursday, October 13 06pm to 08pm
Ippodo Gallery
12 E.86th St #507, New York, NY 10028
Ippodo Gallery’s upcoming exhibition features lacquer works by Jihei Murase III, a third generation lacquerware artist whose family traditions dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). Seeking inspiration for the original work of his grandfather honoring the tea ceremony, the objects are created in the style of Negoro, named for the 12th century temple that originated the design. The Negoro design is a simple, Zen, modest style, where black reveals itself through vermillion over time, and Murase’s work is well known for its expertise in this longstanding tradition. Beyond reverence for the past, the works speak to the changing tides of art and lifestyle in modern society. Delving into form and meaning, works intermingle value of nature, tradition, and harmony in innovation, ultimately challenging conventional tea ceremony with precision and artistry. Tea caddies, scoops, water jars, vases, vessels, and trays will be on display at Ippodo Gallery, with 30 items in all.
Whether in vermillion red, silver or black, Murase emphasizes the harmony in form. Although all works can be used in traditional tea ceremony, Murase is foremost a sculptor, paying careful attention to his golden rule of shape down to minutia. Murase’s tea wares pays reverence to contemporary Mingei style. Translated as the beauty of functional things, Mingei is known as the art of daily life. Viewable as art objects, they are intertwined with the everyday.
Originally from Nagoya, where the tea ceremony was a daily occurrence, the Murase family practiced the precision and artistry necessary to produce top quality objects. The Murase family perfected their technique over the centuries for top clientele among dilettantes and top restaurateurs, including acclaimed potter and celebrated artist Rosanjin Kitaoji (1883-1959).
At the opening reception, Murase himself will serve guests Japanese tea using his own tea utensils.
Free admission. RSVP at 212-967-4899 or mail@ippodogallery.com
For more information visit: http://www.ippodogallery.com/