"Graham has crafted a compact, jewel-like resource for all who seek to
understand the sources, evolution, impact, and value of Japanese
aesthetics and design principles in our modern world." --Dr. Jane
Schall, Sanders Sosland Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art, The
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
This beautifully illustrated guide offers stunning visual examples and
detailed discussions of the objects, aesthetics, philosophy and cultural
significance of Japanese design.
Asian art expert Dr. Patricia Graham helps guide readers through the
aspects of Japanese art and design we've all come to appreciate--whether
it's a silk kimono, carefully raked garden path or modern snack food
packaging. From the ten key characteristics of Japanese design to the
Shinto and Buddhist influences on its aesthetics, this book serves as a
great resource for the different styles and how they developed.
Another fascinating and less explored piece of design in Japan is its
influence on and interpretation by Westerners. From Frank Lloyd Wright
to Lafcadio Hearn, artists, scientists, designers, journalists and
philosophers were inspired by Japan's arts and crafts in the 19th
century. This often romanticized version of Japanese design--viewed
through a Western cultural lens--continues to influence our view of it
to this day. Graham unpacks the sincere, but sometimes misguided,
interpretations of concepts like wabi sabi and shibui.
With more than 200 stunning color photos, this detailed guide will be
enjoyed by everyone from professional designers to art students, and
museum geeks to Japanophiles.
