Kintsugi Workshop for Beginners

with Mami Takahashi

April 19, 2025

11:00am – 1:00pm

Kintsugi is a traditional Japanese Urushi (lacquer)-based craft in which gold is used to repair broken ceramics. The practice of Kintsugi highlights the break rather than erasing it and emphasizes that the break is what makes the ceramics more valuable.

In this beginner’s workshop, participants will learn the basic and simplified version of Kintsugi process on a small porcelain plate to understand the fundamentals of this process. All materials including adhesives in the workshop will be food-safe. We will also use an artificial Urushi (the natural resin/glue collected from the lacquer tree) sap for this beginner’s class, which is safe to touch without allergy reactions.

Please note that in the “Kintsugi for Beginners” workshop, epoxy putty will be used in addition to the ceramic glue. These materials may make the students’ fingers sticky, and some remnants of epoxy might also stay on their fingers for a few days. Finger covers will be provided for student use, but often, that makes working with these materials a bit difficult.

“Kintsugi is based on the philosophy that breakage and repair are something to celebrate – embracing flaws and imperfections creates a stronger and more beautiful piece of art. Using this as a metaphor for healing ourselves teaches us an important lesson: Sometimes in the process of repairing what feels broken, we become more unique, beautiful, and resilient. Kintsugi can be a way to reframe personal challenges. Reminding us that we’re not victims of our circumstances. Showing us that we can come out on the other side stronger.” — Here is a quote about Kintsugi from Linda Muller, a certified life coach.

About Mami Takahashi:

Mami Takahashi is a Japanese multidisciplinary artist and a scholar working in multiple cities including Chicago and Tokyo. She earned her MFA in Contemporary Studio Practice from Portland State University in 2013 and a BFA in Japanese Painting from Joshibi University of Art and Design in Japan.

With ongoing artistic research, practice, and teaching, Takahashi explores different approaches to actualize Japanese aesthetics to enhance cultural perspectives in many U.S. communities. Takahashi also aims to connect Japan and communities in Chicago by teaching traditional and modern art-making techniques.