How Did Ukiyo-e Become Art?
September 26, 2025 (Friday)
Last month, on August 30 (Saturday), I had the opportunity to be involved in a projection mapping event held at Nihonbashi Junior High School in Chuo City. As a special follow-up, a “Lecture & Networking Event” was held on September 26.
This time, we welcomed an impressive lineup of seven distinguished speakers:
- Mr. Yamada, a projection mapping specialist active on the global stage
- Takahashi Workshop, a long-established ukiyo-e woodblock print studio founded in the Ansei era
- Ibasen, founded in 1590, also known as a traditional ukiyo-e publisher
- Mr. Fujiwara, PR producer for NHK historical dramas
- Mr. Tachikawa, who entertained us with a delightful rakugo performance
- Mr. Miyake, who shares the charm of Edo culture through guided city walks
- And, I was also honored to take the stage
Each speaker shared their unique perspective on the world of ukiyo-e, offering rare insights that could only be heard at this event. It was an engaging and highly enriching experience.
Although I became involved in the event organization just one week prior, and was initially unsure how everything would come together,
thanks to the speakers and participants, the event turned into a warm and enjoyable gathering.
Through ukiyo-e, it was a day that deepened my appreciation for the connection between Japan’s traditions, the present, and the global stage.
Once again, I truly felt the importance of preserving and sharing culture across generations and borders.
