In the heart of Koreatown lies Yugen Repair, a unique workshop offering a glimpse into the Japanese art of kintsugi. Kintsugi, meaning "golden joinery," is the practice of repairing broken pottery with precious metals like gold.
In the heart of Koreatown lies Yugen Repair, a unique workshop offering a glimpse into the Japanese art of kintsugi. Kintsugi, meaning "golden joinery," is the practice of repairing broken pottery with precious metals like gold, highlighting the cracks rather than hiding them. Yugen Repair's philosophy aligns perfectly with this concept – they believe beauty can be found in imperfection.
Led by Japanese artist Mari Miyamoto, workshops at Yugen Repair guide participants through the process of repairing broken ceramics. Using traditional techniques and materials, students learn how to mend cracks and enhance the piece's unique history with gold or silver accents. The result is a work of art that celebrates the object's journey, transforming it into a symbol of resilience and acceptance.
The workshop is more than just a craft lesson; it's a metaphor for life. As we navigate life's inevitable challenges, kintsugi reminds us that even broken things can be made beautiful again. The process of repairing ceramics becomes a meditation on healing and transformation.
Yugen Repair offers a unique opportunity to learn about kintsugi and explore the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which emphasizes the beauty of imperfection and the impermanence of all things.