UPCOMING PROGRAMS
Welcome to The Dōjin Japanese Arts Society.
Dōjin Arts hosts intimate salon-style programs and provides opportunities for learning about various Japanese traditional arts, including tea ceremony, incense ceremony, ikebana flower arrangement, wagashi sweets, Japanese dance, music, kimono, ceramics, poetry, painting, calligraphy, and more.
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The Art of Kintsugi: History and Techniques of the Japanese Art of Ceramic Repair
Tea bowl “Seppō” 雪峰 (Snowy Peak), by Hon’ami Kōetsu (1558-1637); The Ebara Hatakeyama Memorial Foundation collection
The Art of Kintsugi: History and Techniques of the Japanese Art of Ceramic Repair
Date: Sunday October 6, 2024
Time: 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre
Session Fee: $20
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Join Dōjin Arts for a Deep Dive into the art of Kintsugi - the traditional Japanese craft of repairing broken ceramics with lacquer and powdered precious metals.
This live program is for anyone interested in learning about the history, aesthetics, and techniques of kintsugi. The lecture/demonstration format will provide both an enlightening introduction for those new to the art form and a richer context and background for those who may have already tried their hand at this popular method of ceramic repair.
Image credit: Xun Yu 六入處感官美學研習社 The Six Sensorial Lab
The program will begin with an engaging visual slide lecture presented by Maiko Behr examining the historical development of the Japanese tradition of ceramic repair. Examining famous artworks, from Song-dynasty China to the modern day, with a focus on Japanese works of the 16th to 19th centuries, the lecture will trace the evolution of the art of kintsugi through a variety of techniques and aesthetic perspectives.
Image credit: Yuka Morino
Following the slide lecture, Yuka Morino of Three Little Spruce will explain the various techniques and tools used in contemporary kintsugi craft, including different types of lacquer and mixing materials, tools, and practical techniques. She will bring examples of these materials and tools to show as she explains the technical intricacies of the traditional craft. Those who have participated in Yuka's hands-on workshops will find that a closer look at the traditional materials and tools that are used in kintsugi will offer an even deeper appreciation of the craft.
Note: This is not a hands-on workshop for learning to repair ceramics yourself using the kintsugi technique. Please see Yuka’s other workshops at Nikkei Centre for hands-on instruction in this art form.
This program is the first of our "Deep Dives with Dōjin Arts," a series of engaging programming designed to offer participants context for a deeper understanding and appreciation of traditional Japanese arts. Each program in the series delves into the history, cultural significance, and techniques behind various Japanese art forms, from ceramics and incense to tea traditions, flower arrangement, and beyond. Whether you are an art enthusiast, cultural scholar, or simply interested in deepening your understanding of Japanese art traditions, we hope that you will join us!
About The Educators:
Maiko Behr has worked as a Japanese to English translator, curator, and consultant specializing in Japanese arts for over twenty years. She is the owner of SaBi Tea Arts, where she teaches chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) in the Omotesenke tradition and kōdō (Japanese incense ceremony) in the Senzan Goryū tradition. In the non-profit sector, Maiko has served locally on the board of directors of the Tomoe Arts Society for over ten years, and has worked and volunteered for various Japanese and Asian arts-related non-profit associations and museums in Canada and the US.
Yuka Morino, an artist who runs Three Little Spruce, grew up in Kyoto, Japan. Her grandmother played a big role in shaping her appreciation for ceramics by collecting pieces from various artists. When one of her grandmother's prized collections broke, Yuka discovered the art of Kintsugi and started mending broken pottery while studying architectural design at Kyoto University of the Arts. Yuka now lives on Quadra Island, B.C., and offers repair services for ceramics. In her jewelry designs, she applies ancient Japanese craftsmanship, using a combination of 金彩 (Kindami, a gold application technique) and 金継ぎ (Kintsugi, mending broken ceramics).
We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia.
Tiny Hand-stitched Treasures : Learn to Make Kaga Yubinuki (Traditional Japanese Thimbles)
Image credit: Moira Fentum
Tiny Hand-stitched Treasures : Learn to Make Kaga Yubinuki (Traditional Japanese Thimble Rings)
Date: Sunday October 27, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Location: SaBi Tea Arts, on 16th Avenue at Dunbar in Vancouver
Workshop Fee: $45 (includes all supplies for making two unique yubinuki)
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Explore the colourful world of Kaga Yubinuki (traditional thimbles from the Kaga region of Japan) as you learn to make your own tiny hand-stitched treasures ahead of the holiday gifting season!
In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the basics of how to create their first yubinuki. All supplies will be provided as you are guided through the entire process: from making a mandrel, to building a core, and then learning the simple stitching required to complete an easy, single-colour thimble. Participants will also receive supplies for a second, two-colour yubinuki and the knowledge to continue exploring more advanced designs at home.
Whether intended as a sewing accessory, fashion piece, or simply a beautiful little treasure, yubinuki make excellent gifts (for yourself or someone else) and we hope you will enjoy learning this traditional craft with us!
Basic hand-sewing experience is helpful but not required.
Image credit: Moira Fentum
About Yubinuki:
Ever since sewing became a way of making clothing, people have invented tools to make the task easier and more pleasant. Kaga yubinuki are one of the most beautiful of these practical tools.
The word yubinuki (Yubi 指– finger, Nuku 貫 – to pierce) refers to any sewing thimble, whether it is made of metal, leather or fabric, but Kaga yubinuki are a particular regional style of highly decorative stitched thimble.
Originating in Kaga Province (now partly Kanazawa, Ishikawa prefecture) during the Edo period, Kaga yubinuki were created from very simple materials used while stitching kimono: paper, leftover sewing threads, and silk floss used to pad the hem of the kimono.
Unlike Western-style thimbles worn over the tip of the finger, wasai (traditional Japanese sewing) thimbles are a ring worn around the middle finger between the knuckles. The network of stitched threads of the Kaga yubinuki securely hold the end of the needle as the user stitches.
Not Just for Sewing!
Image credit: Moira Fentum
Over time, the designs of Kaga yubinuki became more and more elaborate. Today, a wide range of colourful, intricate designs are available using the same simple materials: thread and paper. However, as fewer people sew Japanese style, nowadays yubinuki are often worn as jewellery: a beautiful ring, a pendant hung from a chain or looped on an earring. They can also be used to decorate key chains, tassels and cell phone charms. Your imagination is the limit!
About the Educator:
Moira Fentum is a professional costumer in Vancouver working in the film and theatre industry for nearly 20 years. A longtime interest in Japanese textiles has led her down a path of history, fabric, and art that neatly dovetails with her professional skills. Recently, all of these skills and interests combined as she was part of the costume team for the Vancouver-shot FX / Disney limited series Shōgun.
We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia.
Foundations of Nihon Buyō: Classical Japanese Dance Workshop with HANAYAGI Toshikotono (Mamie Kakimoto)
Photo credit: Zemekiss
This participatory workshop will introduce Nihon Buyō traditional Japanese dance, a storytelling form of dance that grew out of narrative theatre. Hear about the history and aesthetics of this dance form and learn distinctive techniques such as hand and head movements, held poses (mie), walking mechanics, gender conventions, and prop handling (folding fans) that are used to define characters for the kabuki stage. Master instructor HANAYAGI Toshikotono (Mamie Kakimoto) will also demonstrate and perform sample pieces incorporating a range of these techniques.
No experience is necessary; this workshop is open to beginners as well as those with previous experience.
Date: Sunday July 21
Time: 11:00am - 12:30pm
Location: The Dance Centre - Marcuse Studio 7th floor
Session Price: $45
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About the Instructor:
HANAYAGI Toshikotono sensei began dancing at age two in Tokyo, Japan, under HANAYAGI Shizutoshi. She earned her professional name at age 16 and her teaching license when she was 26. She has performed at the National Theatre of Japan multiple times, as well as dancing overseas in Paris. She currently performs and teaches private lessons and small group classes in Vancouver, where her students perform at various community festivals under the name Tomoe Kai.
You can watch a video of Hanayagi Toshikotono dancing Kyōkanoko Musume Dōjōji below:
We gratefully acknowledge support from the Community Fund of the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society.
Immersive Tea Ceremony Experience of the Ichibōan Tea House and Roji Path at Nitobe Memorial Garden
Photos: Christina Cecconi
Immersive Tea Ceremony Experience of the Ichibōan Tea House and Roji Path at Nitobe Memorial Garden
Dates: Sundays on July 14th, August 11th, and September 8th, 2024
Session One: 11:00 am / Session Two: 1:30 pm
Length: 90 minutes each
Location: Nitobe Memorial Garden, UBC
Price: $48 - includes matcha tea service + admission to the garden
Join Maiko Behr, Founder and Executive Director of Dōjin Arts and tea instructor in the Omotesenke tradition, on a guided experience through the teahouse garden (roji) as guests would traditionally use the space -- slipping into "garden sandals" to navigate the stepping stones, sitting in the "waiting arbor," rinsing hands at the tsukubai stone basin, and entering the tea room through the nijiriguchi “crawling entrance.” As Maiko shares insights into the design and cultural significance of the tea garden and the tea house structure itself, feel yourself leaving the outside world behind as you proceed along the path and prepare to enter the tea room. Once inside, enjoy a matcha tea service with a special seasonal wagashi sweet.
Each 90-minute session will accommodate a maximum of 10 participants to ensure a high-quality, interactive learning experience.
Note: The sweet may contain sugar, rice, beans, wheat, eggs, or other potential allergens. We can advise you of all ingredients in advance, but regret that substitutions may not be possible.
About the Educator:
Maiko Behr has worked as a Japanese to English translator, curator, and consultant specializing in Japanese arts for over twenty years. She is the owner of SaBi Tea Arts, where she teaches chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) in the Omotesenke tradition and kōdō (Japanese incense ceremony) in the Senzan Goryū tradition. In the non-profit sector, Maiko has served locally on the board of directors of the Tomoe Arts Society for over ten years, and has worked and volunteered for various Japanese and Asian arts-related non-profit associations and museums in Canada and the US.
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Presented in partnership with UBC Botanical Garden and Nitobe Memorial Garden.
We gratefully acknowledge support from the Community Fund of the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society.
Crafting the Shakuhachi Bamboo Flute of Japan: Demonstration & Performance by Alcvin Ryūzen Ramos
Crafting the Shakuhachi Bamboo Flute of Japan: Demonstration & Performance by Alcvin Ryuzen Ramos. Join Dōjin Arts for an intimate evening getting to know all about shakuhachi 尺八. In this workshop, Alcvin will demonstrate each of the steps involved in craftinging a shakuhachi bamboo flute, sharing the various tools and techniques used. Guests will learn about the different kinds of shakuhachi and their various applications in music and meditation as well as experience the instrument played live by a local master in the tatami tearoom at SaBi Tea Arts.
Reflecting on Japanese Tea Ceremony in the Victorian era at the Roedde House Museum
Matcha in the Parlour at Roedde House Museum
Saturday May 25th
2 sessions: 1:00 pm & 3:00 pm
Maximum 10 guests per session
Tickets: $35 / $30 (seniors & students)
Step back in time with us as we host an intimate Japanese tea ceremony in the historic Roedde House parlour.
Although the practice of preparing tea for guests integrating Zen aesthetics and following carefully prescribed movements and protocols dates back more than 450 years, the forms are constantly evolving to suit the times. As traditional matcha tea is served at a modern-era tea table, longtime tea ceremony practitioner and instructor Maiko Behr will provide a general introduction to the Japanese tea ceremony with additional attention to the period of the encounter between East and West at the turn of the 20th century, contemporary with Roedde House. Join us for a glimpse at this interesting historical moment when traditional arts were adapting to the modern world.
Matcha (stone-milled green tea) and a traditional Japanese sweet* by Saki will be served.
Register and purchase tickets through Roedde House:
*Note: Sweets may contain beans, sugar, rice powder, and agar jelly. If you have dietary concerns, please contact us in advance. Due to the nature of the program, substitutions may not be possible.
About the Roedde House Museum:
Roedde House was built in 1893 for the family of Gustav Roedde and his family. The house was designed by architect Francis Rattenbury, and the family lived in the home from 1893 to 1920. The museum reflects the family's time in the house during the 1890s and early 1900s.
About the Educator:
Dōjin Arts Founder and Executive Director Maiko Behr has worked as a Japanese to English translator, curator, and consultant specializing in Japanese arts for over twenty years. She is the owner of SaBi Tea Arts, where she teaches chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) in the Omotesenke tradition and kōdō (Japanese incense ceremony) in the Senzan Goryū tradition. In the non-profit sector, Maiko has served locally on the board of directors of the Tomoe Arts Society for over ten years, and has worked and volunteered for various Japanese and Asian arts-related non-profit associations and museums in Canada and the US.
We gratefully acknowledge support from the Community Fund of the Japanese Canadian Legacies Society.
Immersive Tea Ceremony Experience of the Ichibōan Tea House and Roji Path at Nitobe Memorial Garden
Join Maiko Behr of The Dōjin Japanese Arts Society on this guided experience to gain insights into the design and cultural significance of the tea garden and the tea house structure itself before enjoying a matcha tea service with a special seasonal wagashi sweet by Saki.
Month of O-Hanami at The Nikkei Museum & Cultural Centre
Dōjin Arts is please to be presenting several programs as part of The Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre’s Month of O-Hanami Festival.
What is WA-SAI 和裁?: The Art of Kimono sewing series - April 21, May 26, June 23.
Join Evelyn Leung, professional costumer and certified Kimono Dressing Instructor in this 3-part lecture-demo series exploring what makes kimono sewing techniques distinctly different from those in the West.
Each lecture can be attended as a stand-alone session, or come to all 3 and begin your journey to making your own kimono!
Sakura Days Japan Fair
Dōjin Arts is pleased to be participating in this year’s Sakura Days Japan Fair April 13th & 14th at VanDusen Botanical Garden.
Nerikō (“Kneaded” Incense) Making Workshop 練香作り体験
We will be offering three time options for this 90-minute workshop:
Session 1 11:00am - 12:30pm
Session 2 1:30pm - 3:00pm
Session 3 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Learn about the art and history of Japanese blended incense before making your own batch of nerikō to enjoy at home.
Since the Heian period (794-1192), fragrant powdered ingredients were mixed with honey or plum flesh and kneaded into round pastilles know as nerikō. This form of incense is indirectly heated rather than burned to release aroma - ideal for smaller spaces and individuals sensitive to smoke.
During this 90-minute, hands-on workshop, guests will learn about the significance of nerikō and its use throughout Japanese history before getting their hands dirty blending and rolling their own incense to take home. All supplies and equipment will be provided. Participants will choose between Baika 梅花 (Plum Blossom) and Zuiun 瑞雲 (Auspicious Clouds), two specially formulated recipes crafted by the Senzan Goryū school of Kōdō (incense ceremony) in Kyoto, Japan.
Workshop $38 (materials included)
Festival Music and Dance of Old Tokyo with Eien Hunter-Ishikawa
Eien Hunter-Ishikawa
Join us for a lecture/demonstration on festival music — Edo Bayashi — and dance — Kotobuki Jishi celebratory lion dance — with Portland-based musician and educator Eien Hunter-Ishikawa.
The intimate salon-style setting of this program will offer the chance to experience the music and dance of the celebratory Shishimai lion dance up-close and to learn about the history and meaning behind this Intangible Cultural Asset of Folk Art from one of the rare experts in the field.
Eien is the founder of the Portland Shishimai Kai. He started learning Edo Kotobuki Jishi in 2001 under the instruction of Kenny Endo, continuing on to study with Kyosuke Suzuki, a longtime member of Wakayama Shachu (Nationally Designated Important Intangible Cultural Asset of Folk Arts). Eien is a certified instructor of all four parts - music and dance - of Wakayama Ryu Edo Kotobuki Jishi. Eien is also a gifted musician and composer on a variety of traditional Japanese instruments, especially taiko and shinobue flute.
Tickets: $45
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Traditional Japanese Winter Drinks: lecture-workshop series with Sen Sakamoto
Traditional Japanese Winter Drinks: lecture-workshop series with Sen Sakamoto
KADO - The Way of Wagashi - with Eijun Mitsubori
Eijun Mitsubori, previously known as Junichi, is an avant-garde artist celebrated worldwide for transforming the art of crafting wagashi into a captivating theatrical experience. His extraordinary "Way of Wagashi" performance has graced stages in Paris, New York, Hong Kong, Toronto, Sydney, Shanghai, and is now returning to Burnaby for the second time.
BLOOM: The Superlative Artistry of Japan - Preview Party
Join us on Saturday, November 4, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, as we open the doors to a world of Japanese beauty. This event promises to be an afternoon of cultural immersion and sensory delight, at a time when Culture Day (bunka no hi 文化の日) is celebrated in Japan.
Autumn Afternoon of Tea & Flowers: Open House with the Sogetsu School of Ikebana and Dōjin Arts
image: "Chiyoda no ōoku: Chanoyu, mawaribana" (detail) by Toyohara Chikanobu (1838-1912), ōban triptych, 1895
Dōjin Arts is pleased to present an opportunity to enjoy an exhibition of ikebana arrangements by members of the Sogetsu Vancouver Branch (Sogetsu School of Ikebana) set in an authentic traditional Japanese tearoom.
Please join us for a bowl of matcha and traditional sweet as we celebrate these sister art forms that flourished under the influence of Zen Buddhist aesthetics and philosophy during the Higashiyama era (late 15th century). Members of Dōjin Arts and the Sogetsu School of Ikebana will be available to chat and answer any questions.
This will be a relaxed, open house setting, not a formal tea service. Donations in support of The Dōjin Japanese Arts Society are welcomed.
We look forward to collaborating with members of Sogetsu Vancouver to bring our communities together around the founding of The Dōjin Japanese Arts Society 同仁文化会.
