“Making”: Let’s Carve Wood and Explore Forms

Lecturer: Nakagawa Shuji

ACK Kids’ Programs consist of “making” and “seeing” activities.

The“making” program invites children to explore materials and tools alongside artists, using their hands to create something of their own. The “seeing” program encourages children to experience artworks through close observation, touring the venue while exchanging ideas with other participants.
Programs listed as “making” and “seeing” combine both experiences, allocating time for participants to tour the venue while carrying their creations in hand.

A workshop offering participants the opportunity to experience the craftsmanship of artisan Nakagawa Shuji from Nakagawa Woodworking, a maker of wooden buckets with a tradition spanning three generations. In the first session, you will learn about wood and watch a demonstration of splitting a log before trying it yourself. Following a break, the second session invites you to explore your own unique forms by carving with a chisel and craft knife and combining small pieces of wood. As you experience the changing appearance, scent, and texture of wood through the process of carving, you will gain inspiration for “making” from the skills and philosophy of an artisan who engages deeply with natural wood and continues to explore new possibilities.
　

Lecturer: Nakagawa Shuji (Japanese Oke Artisan)

Specific age groups:
　Part 1: Ages 7-13
　Part 2: Open to Everyone *Preschoolers must be accompanied by a parent or guardian

Date & Hour: Sun. November 8
　Part 1: 1:30pm−3pm (Admission from 1pm)
　Part 2: 3:30pm−4:30pm (Admission from 3pm)
Venue: ICC Kyoto New Hall Kids’ Program Hub

Admission: Free (Admission to the venue (free for junior high school students and younger) is not included.)
Capacity: 10 participants (By Appointment Only)
*You are also welcome to join Part 2 only, with no reservation needed (open participation). Please note that materials, tools, and space are limited; the session will close once supplies run out.
How to Apply: Please apply by Sun. October 11.
*Applicants will be notified by mid-October whether or not they have been accepted.
*If applications exceed capacity, participants will be selected by a draw.

Note:
Information on what to bring and how to register on the day of the event will be sent via email shortly before the event.
The program will be conducted in Japanese only.
　

Nakagawa Shuji

Born in Kyoto in 1968. After graduating from Kyoto Seika University in 1992 with a degree in sculpture, Nakagawa studied under his father, Seiji Nakagawa, a Preserver of Important Intangible Cultural Properties, learning woodworking techniques such as the crafting of wooden buckets, joinery, and gouging. He is also active in the contemporary art scene, exhibiting his work in solo and juried exhibitions and receiving numerous awards. In 2003, he established his own workshop, Nakagawa Woodworking Hira in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. In 2010, he created a champagne cooler for a world-renowned French luxury champagne brand, and has since begun exploring new possibilities for wooden buckets. He is also engaged in collaborations with artists in Japan and overseas, participates in international exhibitions, and mentors young artists.

Website: https://nakagawa.works/en/