Artisans, especially those who engage in kogei (traditional crafts), construct the essence of Japanese culture. Kogei are handmade, regional products produced from raw materials collected according to traditional practices and manufactured using traditional techniques which play an important role in daily life. However, with changing lifestyles and technologies, it is getting difficult to maintain kogei culture and the skilled artists who have dedicated their lives to it, and the recent Noto Peninsula Earthquake further deeply impacted many kogei artists.

This event will discuss kogei and its history, evolution and future through a 60-minute in-depth discussion with noted kogei experts and a rare in-person visit from a kogei artist from Japan. After the discussion, it will feature a reception in which attendees are encouraged to interact with our panelists and view a pop up exhibition which will feature examples of kogei arts, including kogei from regions affected by the Noto Earthquake.