Modern Kintsugi w/Miya Smith

$160.00

Wednesday 5/20:

5-8 pm

Kintsugi is the ancient Japanese art of mending pottery… transforming a once broken vessel into a work of art by highlighting the fractures with precious metal powder such as gold or silver – reviving the piece with newfound beauty and purpose. The traditional kintsugi method utilizes urushi, a natural lacquer that has been used in Asia for thousands of years. This method takes lots of training and practice to master, and months to complete due to the delicate nature of urushi.

In this hands-on workshop, we will practice a modern kintsugi method instead, using a new type of urushi that is faster drying, with synthetic adhesive and putty that will allow students to experience this artistic process in shortened form. Participants will create a beautiful new work of art that is their very own, and can be taken home that day. The workshop will also educate about the history, culture, and concept of kintsugi and urushi, and the differences between traditional and modern kintsugi methods.

About the instructor
Japanese native and Orange County resident, Miya Smith is a longtime metalsmith and professional Kintsugi instructor and restorer, with extensive experience in both traditional and modern approaches to the craft. She has taught at universities, churches, nonprofit organizations, corporate events, and conferences, working with a wide range of students and audiences.

With her deep knowledge of Kintsugi and urushi techniques, as well as Japanese history and culture, Miya offers valuable insight and context that enrich the learning experience for students of any level. 

Wednesday 5/20:

5-8 pm

Kintsugi is the ancient Japanese art of mending pottery… transforming a once broken vessel into a work of art by highlighting the fractures with precious metal powder such as gold or silver – reviving the piece with newfound beauty and purpose. The traditional kintsugi method utilizes urushi, a natural lacquer that has been used in Asia for thousands of years. This method takes lots of training and practice to master, and months to complete due to the delicate nature of urushi.

In this hands-on workshop, we will practice a modern kintsugi method instead, using a new type of urushi that is faster drying, with synthetic adhesive and putty that will allow students to experience this artistic process in shortened form. Participants will create a beautiful new work of art that is their very own, and can be taken home that day. The workshop will also educate about the history, culture, and concept of kintsugi and urushi, and the differences between traditional and modern kintsugi methods.

About the instructor
Japanese native and Orange County resident, Miya Smith is a longtime metalsmith and professional Kintsugi instructor and restorer, with extensive experience in both traditional and modern approaches to the craft. She has taught at universities, churches, nonprofit organizations, corporate events, and conferences, working with a wide range of students and audiences.

With her deep knowledge of Kintsugi and urushi techniques, as well as Japanese history and culture, Miya offers valuable insight and context that enrich the learning experience for students of any level. 

All the tools and materials for mending will be provided. 

  • Participants will need to bring a broken (but not shattered) vessel to mend.

    • The vessel must be broken into no more than 4-5 pieces. 

    • Must be glazed. 

    • No glass or wood, please. 

    • If you don’t have a suitable vessel to mend, you can purchase one from the instructor for $5 (must contact instructor in advance of workshop). If you have any questions, you may contact the instructor at miyasilversmith@gmail.com

  • Purchase a Kit

    • If you want to continue kintsugi mending at home, you may purchase a modern kintsugi kit from the instructor for $50 (optional), which is not included in the workshop fee.

      • Limited quantities will be available for purchase during the workshop until supplies last.

      • You may contact the instructor in advance (miyasilversmith@gmail.com) if you would like to reserve a kit to purchase.