American apprentice trains in Japan's Shiga Pref. to master traditional 'kintsugi' craft - The Mainichi
mainichi.jp/english/articles/20251002/p2a/00m/0na/002000c
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American Kintsugi Teacher Studies Traditional Techniques in ShigaKira Smith is training in Nagahama from September 22 to October 4 under an experienced Japanese craftsman.
Key FactsOct 3, 2025 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: mainichi.jp
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: mainichi.jp
- The 31-year-old runs a kintsugi class in London and wants to teach traditional lacquer-based methods there.
- Smith initially taught herself kintsugi through YouTube and books; an Arts Council England scholarship enabled her trip.
- Suginaka, 61, has worked as a craftsman for 40 years and teaches tool-making, lacquer application, and ceramic joining.
- The program also covers kintsugi’s history, science, and wabi-sabi; Smith will receive an English-language certificate afterward.
"She is not a complete beginner, so she can manage fairly well. She's quite skilled," Nobuyasu Suginaka said, emphasizing that he wants her to "properly learn the traditional methods, including how to handle tools and apply lacquer."— Nobuyasu Suginaka, the kintsugi craftsman commenting on Kira Smith's proficiency during her apprenticeship in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture.
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US students master art of traditional puppetry in Japan ahead of summer show - The Mainichi
mainichi.jp/english/articles/20230720/p2a/00m/0et/019000c
Key FactsFive US Students Learn Tonda Ningyo Puppetry
Jul 21, 2023 · Reading time: ~45 sec.
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: mainichi.jp
Summary created with AI assistance · Source: mainichi.jp
- Nagahama’s summer program resumed for the first time since the coronavirus pandemic began, with five American university students participating.
- Since June 6, they have practiced seven to eight hours daily in puppetry, shamisen performance and story recitation.
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All the students are passionate and master things quickly. I hope people from overseas will enjoy traditional Japanese culture, and spread it in their home countries to help promote mutual understanding.— Hidehiko Abe, Tonda Puppet Troupe chief and program instructor, speaking in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, Japan
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