Japanese traditional crafts and toys as a reflection of Japanese history, art and spirit. Seminar by Helena Cox, Curator, art historian and Friends’ committee member.

In this seminar, Helena will focus on an area of Japanese art and traditional culture which is often neglected and under researched. Based on her experience of working with one of Europe’s largest museum collections of Japanese traditional crafts and toys, and based on a monogram she published on the topic, Helena will introduce Japanese traditional toys as you have never seen them before: as items closely linked to the history, religion, fashion, poetry. literature and fine arts of pre-Meiji period Japan and as a true reflection of the very core of traditional Japanese spirit and identity which is still visible in Japan’s popular culture and mindset today.

The morning will consist of 2 seminars, the first session will start at 10.30am (tea/coffee available from 10am), followed by a coffee break at 11.15am. Session 2: will run from 11.45-12.30. Attendees are welcome to join us afterwards for a self-funded lunch at a reserved table in the Bar Convent Café.