2025 Nishijin Ori Art and Craft Exhibition: Where Japanese Tradition Meets Western Masterpieces
For over 1,500 years, Nishijin-ori weaving has represented the pinnacle of Japanese textile artistry. This January, witness a breathtaking fusion of this ancient tradition with iconic Western masterpieces at the 2025 Nishijin Ori Art and Craft Exhibition in Nagoya. The exhibition, themed "The Beauty of Japan, The Beauty of the West," showcases stunning reproductions of renowned paintings, meticulously woven with the precision of a painter’s brush.
Featured Works:
Tawaraya Sotatsu’s "Wind God and Thunder God Screen"
Own a piece of Japanese art history with this framed weaving of Sotatsu’s early Edo period masterpiece (owned by Kennin-ji Temple). Woven with pure gold leaf, this exquisite reproduction reflects the artist’s passion and the unparalleled skill of Nishijin-ori artisans.
- Size: Approx. 51×85.5×3cm
- Price: 858,000 yen
- Delivery: From February onwards
Vincent van Gogh’s "Sunflowers"
Experience Van Gogh’s vibrant brushstrokes and bold colors in a new light. This framed "Sunflowers" reproduction utilizes a variety of Nishijin-ori techniques to capture the energy and emotion of the original masterpiece. Get up close and personal with this iconic work, reimagined through the lens of Japanese tradition.
- Size: Approx. 103.5×79.5×4.5cm
- Price: 1,760,000 yen
- Delivery: From March onwards
Ogata Korin’s "Red and White Plum Blossoms Screen"
This magnificent tapestry, shimmering with pure gold leaf, captures the bold composition of Korin’s late masterpiece. A national treasure reborn through the intricate artistry of Nishijin-ori weaving.
- Size: Approx. 3.4×3m
- Price: 110,000,000 yen
- Delivery: From April onwards
Fine Art Painting Obi
Elevate your traditional attire with an obi featuring iconic Impressionist paintings. The delicate play of light and color characteristic of this artistic movement is meticulously recreated using various weaving techniques, resulting in a wearable work of art.
- Price: 748,000 yen each (including lining and tailoring)
- Delivery: From February onwards
Luminous Thread "Ancient and Modern Day and Night Water and Waves" Screen (Non-saleable)
Inspired by the wave motifs of Kason Matazo, Kongo-ji Temple’s "Sun, Moon, Four Seasons, Landscape Screen," and Ogata Korin’s "Matsushima Screen," this unique, non-saleable piece incorporates luminous thread that glows in the dark, offering a captivating spectacle.
Nishijin-ori Drawstring Pouch
These charming pouches are perfect for everyday use. Choose from a variety of patterns and colors to find the perfect accessory for your precious items.
- Size: Approx. 25×17.5cm
- Price: 3,850 yen each
Event Details:
- Dates: January 4th (Sat) – 6th (Mon), 2025
- Hours: 10:00 – 20:00 (Closes at 18:00 on January 6th)
- Venue: JR Nagoya Takashimaya 10th Floor Event Hall (1-1-4 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture)
- Admission: Free
- Contact: JR Nagoya Takashimaya (TEL: 052-566-1101)
- Access: JR, Meitetsu, Kintetsu, Subway, Aonami Line "Nagoya" Station
What is Nishijin Ori?
Nishijin Ori is a traditional textile craft from the Nishijin district of Kyoto, dating back over 1,200 years. It is distinguished by its intricate designs and rich textures, achieved through weaving silk fabrics. The process of creating Nishijin Ori involves traditional techniques and vividly dyed threads, worked on specially designed looms. Skilled artisans, who have honed their craft through generations, meticulously produce each textile. These fabrics are not only visually impressive but also serve as important cultural artifacts, often featured in ceremonial garments like kimonos and obis, and in interior decor. Nishijin Ori embodies the cultural heritage of Japan, adding to its domestic and international appreciation.
