#London #United Kingdom #Japan House #Hyakkō #Contemporary Craft

Hyakkō: A Celebration of Contemporary Japanese Craft

In the heart of London, Japan House is set to host an extraordinary exhibition titled Hyakkō: 100+ Makers from Japan, beginning on December 3, 2025. This event aims to honor and showcase the vibrant contemporary craft scene in Japan, bringing together a collection of over 120 artists who reflect the beauty and ingenuity of everyday objects.

As visitors step into this immersive experience, they will be greeted by nearly 2,000 handcrafted items that represent a diverse array of crafting techniques and materials, including clay, glass, wood, leather, and metal. The exhibition presents a unique opportunity to witness how contemporary Japanese craftsmanship is influenced by traditional practices while allowing for the individuality of each maker to shine through.

Japan has a long-standing relationship with craft, where various skills and techniques have been meticulously passed down through generations. Such crafts often included items that were not only beautiful but also practical, though historically, many were considered beyond the reach of everyday use, created more for admiration than utility. This exhibition challenges that notion, placing value on the art of the everyday.

The mingei (folk craft) movement in the 1920s shifted the focus from traditional artisanship to the crafts produced for and by the people. It emphasized the beauty found in everyday household items, crafted with care and skill. Hyakkō strives to merge this philosophy with a modern perspective, recognizing the craftsmanship while celebrating the narrative of the maker. Rather than confining their works to specific materials, the selected pieces reflect a broad spectrum of craftsmanship that underscores the artistic diversity present in Japan.

The exhibition layout is designed to immerse visitors in a multifaceted exploration of Japanese craft. It features hundreds of beautifully designed items made for everyday use—including stunning glassware, elegant ceramic vases, bamboo cutlery, robust copper pots, and intricately woven baskets. Alongside these functional objects, multimedia insights will introduce the lives of the artists, providing a glimpse into their creative processes and the environments that inspire them.

In addition to the displays, Hyakkō offers a rich program of events focusing on craft and daily life. Attendees can engage in a series of talks, guided tours, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops, facilitating an interactive exploration of the connection between craftsmanship and everyday existence. Select items from the exhibition will also be available for purchase at the Japan House London Shop, allowing visitors to bring home a piece of this unique cultural experience.

Curated in collaboration with Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd. (MUJI) and helmed by curator Nagata Takahiro, this exhibition builds upon its original presentation at ATELIER MUJI GINZA in Tokyo. It serves as part of a broader initiative celebrating art and culture within everyday life, acknowledging the rich cultural heritage from which these crafts emerge.

Simon Wright, Director of Programming at Japan House, eloquently stated, “Hyakkō 100+ Makers from Japan presents the privileged opportunity for audiences outside Japan to experience how contemporary Japanese makers are interpreting deep-rooted cultural notions of beauty.” He highlights the evolution of tradition and its integral role in shaping our interactions with crafted objects, stating, “As people's daily lives change, so do the objects they use.” His sentiment echoes the timeless wisdom of Kamo no Chōmei, who illustrated the ever-changing nature of life with his reflection on rivers, reminding us that while the flow of life may remain constant, each moment and creation is inherently unique.

This exhibition not only showcases the stunning craftsmanship that flourishes across Japan but also encourages reflection on how handmade objects embody care, creativity, and community. Visitors will leave with a deeper appreciation for these works, seeing them as more than mere objects, but as reflections of the human experience steeped in cultural narratives.

Mark your calendars for this enriching artistic celebration at Japan House London, where the bridges between past and present, traditions and innovations, are beautifully intertwined. The exhibition will also travel to Japan House Los Angeles and Japan House São Paulo in 2026 and 2027, extending the reach of this distinguished cultural initiative.