intro
By Aditi Khandelwal (BFA Graphic Design ’27)
As someone deeply passionate about traditional art, I often find myself wondering whether it still holds space in our fast-paced, technology driven world. Do people still practice and pursue traditional crafts? Are these art forms still recognized, respected, and celebrated? And if I choose to follow a more traditional path, can I truly succeed?
These questions found beautiful answers during my visit to the Japan House Spring Open House, which featured a group of extraordinary visiting artists from Fukushima. The experience offered more than just a glimpse into traditional Japanese art—it reaffirmed my belief in the enduring power and relevance of these time-honored practices.
Visiting Fukushima artists Akie Hashimoto, Seiran Chiba, and Ayako Hirai.
first speaker
Upon arrival, I was warmly greeted by Japan House staff dressed in soft, pastel-colored kimonos. The space itself was enchanting—paper flowers delicately suspended from the ceiling created an atmosphere of serenity and reverence. As I took my seat for the artist presentations, I felt a quiet sense of anticipation.
The first speaker Seiran Chiba is an internationally acclaimed large-scale calligraphy artist and teacher. Chiba-san’s art is a profound exploration of emotional expression
through ink. What struck me most was her resilience: having survived the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Fukushima, she continued her practice with unwavering dedication. Her journey is a powerful reminder that no matter the hardships, be it natural disasters or personal struggles, art can endure and even flourish. Her story
proved a testament to the unbreakable bond between artist and medium.
Visiting Fukushima artists Akie Hashimoto, Seiran Chiba, and Ayako Hirai.
next two speakers
Ayako Hirai, a lacquer craftswoman and kintsugi specialist, cofounded an independent lacquer studio with her husband in 2016. Hirai-san’s presentation revealed the strength behind patience and precision. The traditional process of extracting and refining urushi (Japanese lacquer) is painstaking and meticulous, yet she approaches it with calm dedication. From her, I learned that artistry is not just about creation—it is about discipline, care, and an intimate understanding of the materials at hand.
The final speaker Akie Hashimoto practices the traditional art of hariko (handmade Japanese papier-mâché). After six years as a hariko artist, she joined her family’s folk craft business, continuing to create works such as Tsurushi-bina Hariko, which are delicate hanging strands of paper dolls. Through her, I discovered the value of
iteration and persistence. Hashimoto-san’s process involves repeated refinements, reinforcing the idea that the path to artistic fulfillment often lies in embracing the
time and effort it takes to create something truly meaningful.
Artist Seiran Chiba with the author, Art & Design student Aditi Khandelwal.
conclusion
While each artist brought a unique perspective and medium, they collectively imparted lessons that will stay with me. Most importantly, they reaffirmed that traditional art is not only alive but thriving. In an age of AI-generated images and digital immediacy, there are still artists who pour their time, love, and humanity into ink, paper, and wood—who uphold patience, expertise, and resilience as sacred values.
After the inspiring presentations by the artists, I was invited into a chashitsu, a traditional Japanese tearoom, along with about fifteen other guests. We quietly settled into this serene space as a staff member seated in the seiza position began the ritual of preparing matcha. Every movement was intentional, embodying the essence of mindfulness. Before sipping our tea, we were gently guided through the etiquette, thanking and acknowledging one another as part of the ritual. The entire ceremony felt like a moment suspended in time, offering a peaceful pause from the fast pace of daily life. It was more than just a bowl of tea; it was a beautiful reminder of how stillness, gratitude, and tradition can help us reconnect with ourselves and the present moment.
When asked if she had advice for aspiring young artists, Seiran Chiba offered a simple yet profound piece of wisdom: “Hold on to your hopes.” That sentiment continues to resonate with me. As I left Japan House that day, I carried with me more than admiration for traditional Japanese art—I carried hope. Hope that these practices will continue to inspire, evolve, and endure. And hope that I, too, can be part of their future.
Artist Seiran Chiba with the author, Art & Design student Aditi Khandelwal.
credits
The Kogei: Traditional Arts and Crafts of Fukushima, Japan project was supported by the Japan Foundation New York through the U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program and the Illinois Arts Council. Seiran Chiba, the Fukushima Cultural Ambassador and frequent visiting artist to Japan House, was also supported by the Center for Advanced Study as a George A. Miller Visiting Artist.