Konosuke Matsushita and Japanese Traditional Craft ArtsClosed

Not many people know that Panasonic founder Konosuke Matsushita (1894-1989) had a deep understanding of Japanese traditional craft arts, which he passionately promoted and supported during his lifetime. Although he often claimed to not have much of an eye for art, Matsushita was involved in quite a bit of artistic activity, from the art collection he amassed over the years to the executive roles he played in Nihon Kogeikai and other art organizations. This exhibition focuses on these aspects of Matsushita’s relationship with Japanese traditional craft arts.

Matsushita valued modesty throughout his life and believed it could be nurtured through the traditional tea ceremony. Through his encounters with various tea ware, he began to show more interest in the craftsmen who made them. Japanese traditional craft artworks—ceramics, dyed textiles, lacquer ware, metal ware, wood and bamboo ware, dolls, and gold leaf ware—are created using a variety of materials and traditional methods, while also incorporating contemporary touches. Matsushita’s exploration of these traditional arts led him to the conclusion that they represented the origins of Japanese manufacturing. He supported the artisans who practiced them so that future generations would not forget the soul of Japanese manufacturing.

On display are 90 craft artworks that have some strong connection with Matsushita—60 of which have never been exhibited—by 65 artists. This is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to explore Matsushita’s belief that these traditional craft arts could contribute significantly to our cultural development.