#[New Program] Hyogu – The Art of Paper Mounting and Framing - TOMA HOUSE AIR Learn about the art of hyōgu and kakejiku mounting in Japan in a former-priest house in Nara.

Toma House AIR x SEIKADOU

[OPEN CALL] Hyogu – The Art of Paper Mounting and Framing

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 hyogu (mounting and framing of paper-based artworks) with century-old mounting studio SEIKADOU.

This program focuses on one aspect of hyogu – kakejiku (hanging scrolls), and provides a series of lectures, workshops, projects and field trips which cover the historical context, aesthetics, structural elements, materials, techniques, and essential processes integral to hyogu artistry. Each participant will learn to mount two pieces of kakejiku under the guidance of an expert Japanese mounter and will be encouraged to employ what they learn in the program in their future practices and personal projects.This English-based program offers the opportunity to learn the various aspects of hyogu artistry and kakejiku mounting techniques, which until now necessitated training in a Japanese mounting studio and Japanese language proficiency.

You can look forward to:

Learning 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.
- 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.
Gaining insight into the layers behind hyogu, its artistry, and the sustainable maintenance ecosystem of cultural properties in Japan, represented by Bunkazaihozon, one of only ten studios in Japan that are qualified to repair national treasures.
A culturally immersive experience through participation in a tea ceremony, which will further enhance one’s appreciation for hyogu art.
Receive a handbook dedicated to kakejiku mounting techniques and a valuable set of mounting tools selected by professional mounters to keep.
This program is ideal for anyone who wants to pursue a deeper understanding of the art of hyogu and learn the practical techniques to mounting kakejiku, which they will be able to apply to their future projects or artistic practices.

Important Notes:

Due to competitive selection, we encourage early applications to secure your spot.
This residency program is supported by the Japanese Ministry of Culture.
This is a self-funded open-call program. Participants must cover all their own expenses throughout the program.
For artists, students, researchers, and artisans who are seeking a grant or funding in order to enroll in the program, we will gladly provide the necessary documents that you may require for the application process.

What is Hyōgu?

Hyogu (表具) is the art of mounting and framing of paper-based artworks. It has been practiced 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 hyogu lies in the harmonious combination of honshi (the main artwork) and sotei (decorative mounting) which requires knowledge and skills in mounting and an appreciation for aesthetics.

ABOUT SEIKADOU

SEIKADOU CO. LTD., established in Osaka in 1923, is a mounting studio dedicated in the art of mounting and preserving historical and artistic works. As the main instructor of the program, their expertise will guide you through the ways to appreciate hyogu and master the steps and techniques to mount kakejiku.Their mounters are experts in mounting and framing various art forms, from historic hyōgu collections in temples and museums to contemporary artworks. They are committed to advancing artwork preservation technologies, digital archiving; and nurturing the next generation of mounters. SEIKADOU has been selected to participate in the 2025 World Expo in Osaka.

Program Special Guest

BUNKAZAIHOZON CO. LTD.

Nara-based Bunkazaihozon Co. Ltd. is one of only ten studios in Japan accredited by the Association for Conservation of National Treasures (ACNT) to preserve and restore national treasures.

The studio specializes in restoring oriental paintings and books that are registered national treasures or significant cultural properties. They wish to impart to participants a deeper understanding of cultural properties, the importance of conservation and restoration, and the intricate structure and features behind the artworks.

CLICK TO APPLY

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Please read and understand the Application Guidelines before starting the application.
Fill in the Online Application Form.
We will assess your application internally and contact you with the selection result.
Application due date: August 1st, 2025 (Fri.)

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