The Timeless Allure of Washi – Free Talk with Nancy Jacobi

A presentation by Nancy Jacobi, Founder of the Japanese Paper Place

The Timeless Allure of Washi, traditional Japanese paper (610-2022 CE)

Nancy will give a brief history of the long road from 610, when the technique for making paper from bast fibres was introduced by Buddhist monks from what is now Korea. From her photos taken over 40 years of visiting papermaking villages, you will learn of the laborious method of growing and preparing the plants to be made into strong, versatile, sustainable sheets for use in many everyday items as well as in works of art.

You will see the creative use of washi by artists both inside and outside Japan, including Rembrandt and by contemporary artist virtuosos like Naoko Matsubara and Alexa Hatanaka. Now that the world is finally discovering the tremendous potential of washi, the industry is facing critical challenges, after 1400 continuous years.

Whether it inspires you to pick up a brush, make a shoji screen, or marvel at and support artists who have persevered in getting to know Japanese paper, this presentation will hopefully move you to a new appreciation for this ancient resource.