Hands-On Experience in Ceramic Restoration｜2.5-hour Kintsugi Workshop
*Includes complimentary tea breaks and snacks
Up to 10 participants per session.
*Includes complimentary tea breaks and snacks
Up to 10 participants per session.
*Includes complimentary tea breaks and snacks
Up to 10 participants per session.
Have you ever wondered how broken ceramics can be transformed into something even more beautiful? Kintsugi (金継ぎ), meaning "golden joinery," is a centuries-old Japanese art that repairs ceramics using natural urushi lacquer and gold powder. By embracing imperfections, Kintsugi transforms broken objects into beautiful works of art, reminding us that cracks and flaws are a natural part of life’s journey.
In this 2.5-hour hands-on workshop, you will discover the traditional art of Kintsugi, gain hands-on experience with the essential steps —mending a broken ceramic chopstick rest with urushi lacquer and applying metallic powder to another piece that you can take home.
This workshop is perfect for beginners, design enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Japanese craftsmanship, sustainability, and Wabi-Sabi aesthetics.
*All materials will be provided.
Part 1: Unveiling the Secrets of Kintsugi
In this section, you will gain a comprehensive introduction to the philosophy and history behind Kintsugi. Discover how ceramic restoration transforms flaws into beauty, and learn about Urushi lacquer – the natural adhesive that brings it all together.
Part 2: Experience Mending
Learn the materials of traditional kintsugi. Hands-on experience of mending a broken chopstick rest.
Watch instructors demonstration of filling missing chips.
Part 3: Crafting Your Golden Piece
You will add a dazzling touch with the final application of metallic powder to a lovely chopstick rest—a piece you can take home as a unique keepsake.
Part 4: Discussion and & Reflections
In this concluding segment, you’ll engage in an open discussion about the broader applications of Kintsugi. Our instructor will share personal reflections and the deeper meanings behind the art, inviting you to see beauty in imperfection. Bring your questions for a lively Q&A session, and leave inspired to explore further.
Important Allergy Note
Avoid Possible allergies to Urushi Lacquer During Hands-on Experience Workshop: Kintsugi uses urushi lacquer, which contains the same allergen as poison ivy and may cause allergies. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the following precautions will be taken:
- An allergy disclaimer will be included in course confirmation emails
- Students must wear gloves at all times during the class
- Alcohol wipes will be provided for cleaning hands after the session
- Students will receive instructions for handling their take-home piece
*All video and images courtesy of makomako, Fou Gallery and 7Arts
Instructor
makomako.kintsugi is a New York based Kintsugi artist and Chanoyu practitioner. The breaking of a tea bowl led her to the study of Kintsugi – the Japanese art of ceramic restoration using urushi lacquer and gold. She studied with lacquer master and Kintsugi specialist Gen Saratani, Rongqiang Wu and Bowen Chen. She specializes in using natural materials for Kintsugi, and through study, practice, exploration, and reflection, she has developed a new understanding of "beauty" — the pursuit of "exquisite beauty" in traditional Chinese aesthetics is replaced by letting "beauty" be restored and cherished through ages. This timeless perception is also what she hopes to convey to the audience through this course.
Instagram: @makomako.kintsugi
Payment and Cancellation Policy
At Fou Gallery, we are dedicated to offering meaningful and enriching experiences through our courses. Due to the intimate nature of our programs and the detailed planning required with our instructors, we kindly ask for your understanding of our non-refundable policy. Once registered for a course, all payments are final and cannot be refunded.
