Artisan of traditional dyeing／Interview - IS JAPAN COOL? CRAFTSMANSHIP（染織家）

IS JAPAN COOL? CRAFTSMANSHIP
https://www.ana-cooljapan.com/contents/craftsmanship/

The history of dyeing dates back to ancient times, appearing several millennia BCE in such places as China, India, Rome, and Greece. These techniques were brought to Japan around the 3rd century CE.
“Japan’s oldest history of dyeing is found in books called Engishiki compiled during the early 10th century (Heian period). These describe royal rituals, customs, and clothing, including dye ingredients used for particular colors. The original sources for dyes were derived entirely from plants,” explains Sarasa Yoshioka of Somenotsukasa Yoshioka (Dye Factory Yoshioka), a dyeing factory founded during the Edo period in Kyoto.

Japanese craftsmanship is a way of life for artisans who continue faithfully making their traditional crafts while devoting themselves to enhancing their skills.

We at ANA focus this year’s “Is Japan Cool?” project on Japanese artisans with expert command of unusual techniques inherited from ancient times — now rare in today’s world. Feature articles spotlight the spirit of tradition that dwells in these often unknown artisans who support Japanese people’s lives and cultures with the works they make by hand. The project team wishes to reach as many people as possible and share the true stories of these artisans and their treasured craft legacies.