#Japan #Veneto #Tokushima #Atelier Seiran #Indigo Craft

Atelier Seiran's Journey at the Venice Biennale

Atelier Seiran, a renowned textile studio based in Tokushima, Japan, is set to host a remarkable series of conversations titled "From Indigo to the World: The Spirit and Creativity of Japanese Culture". This unique event will take place on September 22 and 23, 2026, at the Palazzo Dona dalle Rose, part of the official collateral events of the 61st Venice Biennale, anchored in the exhibition "Fissures of Light: Diaspora Dissonances in Fa Minor".

The upcoming discussions will delve into the cultural philosophy that underpins the work of Atelier Seiran, focusing on the profound relationship between Japan's natural surroundings and its aesthetic and creative values. Founded in 1970 by the esteemed indigo artist Yoko Hashimoto, Atelier Seiran has been at the forefront of Awa indigo dyeing, employing a distinctive technique that entwines traditional indigo dyeing with wax resist methods known as roketsuzome. Currently, Yoko’s daughters, Hatsuko Ukigawa and Kiyoko Hashimoto, are carrying forward this legacy, infusing new dimensions into the artistry and expression of their craft.

Hatsuko Ukigawa, the current director, will lead two of the discussions, showcasing Atelier Seiran's artistic endeavors alongside their cultural context. Another highlight of the event will be "Les Lucioles" (The Fireflies), a collaborative piece born from a meeting between Ukigawa and Cameroonian designer Serge Mouangue. This work exemplifies the creative dialogues fostered by Japanese indigo through cultural exchanges.

As the studio notes, "Venice has long been a crossroads of East and West. Through indigo, we aspire to open a dialogue that shares not just a color but the rich culture and spirit supporting it."

Event Summary

• - Title/Theme: From Indigo to the World: The Spirit and Creativity of Japanese Culture
• - Dates: September 22 and 23, 2026, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM (both days)
• - Venue: Palazzo Dona dalle Rose, Cannaregio 5038, Venice
• - Collaboration: Organized by Atelier Seiran; Supported by Fondazione Dona dalle Rose
• - Collaborators: TISSALI Arts & Cultures
• - Planned Sponsors: MetaMoJi Corporation; Shoshin Foundation; ExoEARTH Inc.
• - Speakers: Hatsuko Ukigawa (representative of Atelier Seiran); Chiara Modica Dona dalle Rose (Fondazione Dona dalle Rose, moderator yet to be confirmed)
• - Participants via video: Yoko Hashimoto, Kiyoko Hashimoto, Serge Mouangue

This ambitious initiative aims not only to showcase the beauty of indigo craftsmanship but also to inform attendees about the intricate connections between nature and artistry. Atelier Seiran's exhibition is part of the official events surrounding the Venice Biennale 2026, running until November 22.

For more details, one can visit the official website of Atelier Seiran here.