A Hundred Ways of Making
When you walk into the Hyakkō: 100+ Makers from Japan at the Japan House in London, there isn’t a single piece of artwork that does not exude attention and care. Every single object created by these artisans reveals the originality and beauty of traditional hand-making methods, from the subtle unevenness to the gentle marks left by these makers’ fingers. Such details act as a reminder that these household pieces seen at the exhibition were carefully designed and handcrafted by a human being rather than a machine. Just like the term “Hyakkō” translates to “a hundred makers,” the idea behind it can be seen in the many different ways that the Japanese approach craftsmanship in today’s fast-paced modern world.
Crafting and Women’s Experience
With Hyakkō, the main intention is not in creating the most flawless objects with perfect finishes, but rather in the care and attention to detail that goes into crafting each piece, and this is part of why the exhibition resonates so strongly with women. Qualities such as patience and attention to detail are known to be how women perform their duties, and it is seen as a strength and admired in Hyakkō regardless of how overlooked they are in modern society. The main idea behind Hyakkō is to celebrate the uniqueness of each raw material by highlighting natural patterns, subtle textures, and small irregularities, which should be celebrated because that is what makes each item special.
Why Hyakkō Matters
In a society that often rewards speed and efficiency, the people choosing to embrace care and patience are making a conscious commitment to value depth and presence over quick results. Hyakkō embodies this philosophy by demonstrating the importance of preserving a culture that values careful and thoughtful craftsmanship while staying true to its core values.
Hyakkō 100+ Makers, Japan House, 3 December 2025 – 10 May 2026.
Photos courtesy of: Japan House and Elther P.
