Akita University of Art Graduate School of Transdisciplinary Arts is hosting Master’s second-year student LIU Xingyun’s “Research Exhibition: Raden Makie and Kanshitsu” at the Akita University of Art Satellite Center through Saturday, January 15. “Raden”, “Makie” and “Kanshitsu” refer to three techniques used in Japanese lacquerware, or “urushi.”

I first encountered Raden and Makie as a university student in my home country of China. As I continued to familiarize myself with the materials, my research turned towards familiarizing the broader population with the techniques of urushi craft.
In Japan, the importance of preserving traditional culture is well understood, but the transmission of materials, tools and techniques to succeeding generations is becoming more and more difficult.
At AUA’s Graduate School of Transdisciplinary Arts, I am studying more advanced urushi techniques, while investigating the promotion of traditional cultures from a transdisciplinary perspective.

Since first encountering Raden and Makie, their complexity and beauty have continued to provide me with hope, and I am glad to be able to work with such materials and techniques every day.
With heartfelt gratitude for everyone who made this exhibition possible, and everyone I have met through my work and research, I vow to continue showcasing the beauty of Raden and Makie to Akita and the world.

Liu Xingyun

　Artist Profile

　Liu Xingyun

Born in Anhui Province, People’s Republic of China.
2018　Graduated (Public Art), South Central University for Nationalities, People’s Republic of China
Presently enrolled in the Master’s Program of the Graduate School of Transdisciplinary Arts, Akita University of Art

Venue: Akita University of Art Satellite Center (6th Floor of Fonte AKITA, 2 Chome-8-1 Nakadori, Akita City)
Date: January 5 (Wed.) – January 15 (Sat.), 2022
Time: 10:00 - 18:00 (admission is free of charge)
Planning: Liu Xingyun (Master’s 2nd-year student, Akita University of Art Graduate School of Transdisciplinary Arts)
Host: Akita University of Art Graduate School of Transdisciplinary Arts
Contact: 936312548@qq.com / 080-5419-1314