Toma House AIR x SEIKADOU

A: Sep 27th (Sat.) ~ Oct. 24th (Fri.) 2025

B: Nov. 1st (Sat.) ~ Nov. 28th (Fri.) 2025

Toma House AIR is launching a new program on the art of hyōgu (表具: mounting and framing of paper-based artworks) with century-old mounting studio SEIKADOU. 

This program focuses on one aspect of hyōgu – kakejiku (掛軸: hanging scrolls) and provides a series of lectures and workshops that cover the historical context, structural elements, techniques, and processes integral to hyōgu artistry. Each participant will learn to mount two pieces of kakejiku under the guidance of an experienced Japanese mounter.

The lessons will take place in the historic setting of Toma House AIR, a registered cultural property that once served as a priest family house in Nara City.  The program language will be in Japanese, complemented by English interpretation during the lessons. Participants will receive a kakejiku handbook and a set of mounting tools to mount their kakejiku.

  • This English-based program offers an exclusive gateway into various aspects of hyōgu art. This area often necessitates training in a Japanese mounting studio and proficiency in the Japanese language. Participants can look forward to:
    • Learn the steps and practical techniques to mount two pieces of kakejiku under the supervision of a professional Japanese mounter from century-old mounting studio SEIKADOU.
    • Gain an insight into the the layers behind hyōgu, its artistry and the sustainable maintenance ecosystem of cultural properties in Japan, represented by Bunkazaihozon, one of the ten studios that is qualified to repair national treasures in Japan.
    • A culturally immersive experience through participation in a tea ceremony, which will further enhance appreciation for hyōgu art.
  • Bring back home a kakejiku handbook and a valuable set of mounting tools selected by professional mounters from SEIKADOU.
  • This program is ideal for anyone who wants to pursue a deeper understanding in the art of hyōgu and learn the practical technique to mount kakejiku, which may be applied to their future projects or artistic practices.
  • This is a self-funded open-call program. Participants will finance themselves throughout the programme.
  • For artists, students and scholars who are seeking to enroll in the program with a grant or funding, we will assist with the necessary documents for you to apply for the fundings.

Hyōgu (表具) is the art of mounting and framing of paper-based artworks. It has been practised in Japan since the 8th century in the realms of painting, calligraphy and prints ranging from contemporary art to historic cultural assets in the field of restoration and conservation.

The essence of a hyōgu lies in the harmonious combination of honshi (本紙 – the main artwork) and sōtei (装丁 – decorative mounting), which requires knowledge and skills in mounting and an appreciation for aesthetics.

ABOUT SEIKADOU

Program Special Guest

Nara-based Bunkazaihozon Co. Ltd. (株式会社文化財保存) is one of the ten studios in Japan accredited by the Association for Conservation of National Treasures (ACNT) to preserve and restore national treasures.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

  1. Please read and understand the Application Guidelines before starting the application.
  2. Fill in the Online Application Form.
  3. We will assess your application internally and contact you with the selection result.
  4. Application due date: June 30th (Mon.), 2025

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