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Modern Kintsugi

13 Comments

Tomomi Kamoshita

I am a sucker for kintsugi, the Japanese tradition of repairing something humble with precious metals to elevate the original item. So when I saw the beautiful kintsugi mashups by Tomomi Kamoshita, I was hooked! Using broken pieces of ceramics and glass she finds on the beach alongside ceramics she makes herself, the artist makes completely new and interesting objects.

Her way of combining different colors and materials gives Kamoshita’s work a stained-glass-type effect. Her kintsugi pieces include the usual repaired bowls and vessels along with more unexpected items like hair sticks and chopstick rests. By taking a new form and finding a new use, “these once lost and broken pieces experience renewed purpose and newfound vitality”.

Like many of my favorite artists, Kamoshita is generous with her knowledge. She is based in Tokyo but also travels throughout the U.S., Europe, and India, teaching ceramics and kintsugi techniques.

You can see more of Tomomi Kamoshita’s wonderful work on her website and on Instagram.

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Author: Donna from One Beautiful Thing

I have committed to spending part of every day looking for at least one beautiful thing, and sharing what I find with you lovelies!

13 thoughts on “Modern Kintsugi

  1. Emah Purple's avatar

    They are absolutely beautiful. The idea of turning something that has been condemned into something that has value is one that runs through most of my writing.

    Liked by 1 person

  2. lois's avatar

    How beautiful! I would guess that some of the repaired items are even prettier than the original condition.

    Liked by 1 person

  3. janhaltn's avatar

    I had never heard of “kintsugi” before today. They are very interesting and beautiful. My best friend was born and raised in Ohio. With that background, she eats a lot of oriental food with chopsticks. So they added to the art in this case. Hal

    Liked by 1 person

  4. Laura (PA Pict)'s avatar

    Beautiful! Each piece is so wonderful that I cannot even pick a favourite from your selection.

    Liked by 1 person

  5. Melba Christie at Poemattic's avatar

    Thanks for this post. I have saved specific pieces of broken ceramic vases and other items. I found simplistic beauty in them but did not think of what to do with them. This is a great way to preserve them.

    Liked by 1 person

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