Introduction to the Mingei Movement
The Japanese Mingei movement, initiated by Yanagi Sลetsu in the 1920s, is characterized by its focus on appreciating and preserving folk crafts, or “people’s crafts,” which are functional, everyday objects created by anonymous artisans for the common classes.
Philosophical Underpinnings and Cultural Identity
This movement emphasizes the aesthetic and moral values of goodness and truth, influenced by Pure Land Buddhism. It has been instrumental in shaping Japan’s national cultural identity by promoting and selling mingei objects.
Comparison with the Arts and Crafts Movement
The Mingei movement parallels the British Arts and Crafts movement’s utopian ideals but diverges by not emphasizing economic issues or industrial collaborations.
Influence on Modern Design
In modern design, Mingei’s influence is evident in brands like MUJI and the D&DEPARTMENT PROJECT, which claim to be the movement’s successors, focusing on sustainable design and addressing the challenges of capitalism. The movement’s ethos has also impacted modern craft ideology globally, particularly among post-World War II ceramists.
Impact on Global Craft Ideology
The significance of Mingei in contemporary design is further highlighted by its integration into modern Japanese craft exhibitions, where traditional techniques are preserved and innovatively applied to meet contemporary needs.
“Living National Treasures” and the Balance of Tradition and Innovation
This dynamic approach to craft, as seen in the work of “Living National Treasures,” reflects a balance between tradition and modernity, where artisans are encouraged to improve upon inherited techniques.
Ethical Dimensions in Craftwork
Additionally, the Mingei movement’s focus on the ethical and moral dimensions of craft work, as explored through the temporal structures of tradition, underscores its relevance in fostering creativity and adaptability in the face of changing social and environmental conditions.
Legacy of Mingei in Contemporary Design
Overall, Mingei’s key characteristics of valuing simplicity, functionality, and the beauty of everyday objects continue to influence modern design, promoting a sustainable and culturally rich approach to craftsmanship.
References
Bryant, A. (2023). Mingei. Art History. https://doi.org/10.1093/obo/9780199920105-0172
Roh, J. (2022). The New Mingei Movement in Japanese Design Industry: MUJI and D&DEPARTMENT PROJECT. Ilbonhag. https://doi.org/10.21442/djs.2022.56.05
Rousmaniere, N. C., & ๆฑไบฌๅฝ็ซ่ฟไปฃ็พ่ก้คจ. (2007). Crafting beauty in modern Japan: Celebrating fifty years of the Japan Traditional Art Crafts exhibition.
Holt, R., & Yamauchi, Y. (2023). Ethics, Tradition, and Temporality in Craft Work: The Case of Japanese Mingei. Journal of Business Ethics. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-023-05500-2
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