#Japan #Tokyo #Traditional Crafts #Edo Kiriko #Fujimaki Department Store

The 38th Edo Kiriko New Works Exhibition: Cast Your Vote!

The Edo Kiriko community is thrilled to announce the upcoming 38th Edo Kiriko New Works Exhibition, part of the Edo Kiriko Cherry Blossom Festival happening from April 3 to 5, 2026. This year's event promises to be unparalleled, displaying works from both emerging young artisans and seasoned masters.

Online Voting Starts!

From March 16 to 30, 2026, the public can participate in the decision-making process by casting votes through a special online portal hosted by Fujimaki Department Store. The artwork that garners the most votes will receive the esteemed Fujimaki Department Store Award. This award recognizes excellence in craftsmanship and will surely bring pride to its recipient.

You play a crucial role in determining which piece will claim top honors. Explore the stunning glassworks and make your selection. Vote now and celebrate the artisanship that defines Edo Kiriko!

A Tradition of Artistry

Since its inception in 1989, the Edo Kiriko New Works Exhibition has focused on enhancing and perpetuating the beautiful art of Edo Kiriko glass cutting. This year marks the 38th exhibition, underscoring its significance in the traditional craft community. The competition is judged rigorously by a panel comprising esteemed traditional craft experts and a few external evaluators knowledgeable in glasswork, ensuring only the finest pieces are recognized.

Discover the New Works

At this year's exhibition, which features 26 new creations, almost a third of the entries are by female artisans, highlighting the growing representation of women in this field. Many of the artisans are from the younger generation, with numerous participants in their 20s contributing fresh interpretations to conventional designs.

Experts are already acclaiming the 2026 exhibition as potentially the best yet, with a thrilling array of works that showcase diversity in style, strength, delicacy, and vibrancy.

What Awaits at the Edo Kiriko Cherry Blossom Festival

Not only does the exhibition celebrate craftsmanship, but it is also part of the larger Edo Kiriko Cherry Blossom Festival, which aims to immerse visitors in a world where traditional glass art meets modern aesthetics. Held in the heart of Ginza, Tokyo, the event will be decorated with cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque backdrop for this cultural celebration.

Popular Activities Include:

• - The Edo Kiriko New Works Exhibition: A showcase of the latest cutting-edge designs.
• - The Sales Event: Meet 34 artisans offering exquisite works, from rare masterpieces to everyday items.
• - The Cutting Experience Workshop: A hands-on opportunity to learn the art of glass cutting directly from the masters.
• - Artisan Discussions: Insightful sessions where skilled craftsmen explain the allure of Edo Kiriko.

Why Attend?

Engaging with artisans allows visitors to appreciate the intricate techniques enriching Edo Kiriko. Moreover, attendees can take part in exclusive workshops that typically fill up quickly due to popularity. These provide a unique chance to create your own piece of glass art, guided by an expert.

Cultural Significance

In recent years, Edo Kiriko has witnessed a surge of talented young artisans, with 50% of craftsmen now under 40. This positivity and transformation stem from opportunities like the Edo Kiriko Cherry Blossom Festival, where artisans can directly connect with their audience. Encouraging such engagement is pivotal as the industry grapples with challenges like a shortage of successors in traditional crafts.

Conclusion

Don't miss out on this colorful celebration of traditional artistry at the 38th Edo Kiriko New Works Exhibition. Your vote can spotlight a masterpiece, contribute to the visibility of this beautiful craft, and ensure that it continues to thrive. Mark your calendars from March 16 to 30, 2026, and join us in honoring the rich legacy and vibrant future of Edo Kiriko glass art. Visit Fujimaki Department Store's special page for more details and to vote!

Dive into the world of Edo Kiriko and experience its elegance first-hand at this year’s festival!