Kintsugi workshop

Day 1 of the workshop: On the first day, we will begin working on the objects brought by the participants.

Introduction to Urushi lacquers and their applications / Preparation for repair.

Repair begins with assessing the damage, cleaning, and initially joining the parts, which will later be coated with gold, silver, or red urushi lacquer. Maximum piece size: 20x20x20 cm.

To conclude the first day, we will demonstrate the entire process using small antique pieces that Kristina Mar has brought with her from Kyoto.

Day 2: The second phase – in which the repaired areas are smoothed and polished – is demonstrated using ceramic pieces provided by the instructor. Each participant receives a small antique Kyoto-yaki vessel, which they complete independently, including applying the final layer of gold or colored lacquer.

This step is crucial, as it determines the level of detail and the quality of the final result. Excess material is carefully removed, and the repaired areas are precisely polished to optimally prepare them for the final coat of paint. Gold, silver, or other metal or pigment decorations can then be applied.

The Urushi lacquer (from day 1) requires a curing time of approximately 10 days. Therefore, participants learn how to apply a so-called... Muro, A special humid room for paint curing is set up, which is used in the various phases of Kintsugi practice.

The participants continue their work, which they started on the first day, independently at home about 10 days later, after the varnish has completely hardened.

For this reason, we recommend purchasing a suitable set so that your own practice can be continued even after the workshop.

What do participants need to bring?

One broken ceramic object (max. size 20x20x20cm) Other objects are not included in the price and will be charged separately.

Cardboard box (larger than the objects brought along)

Kristina Mar was born in Portugal in 1964. She graduated in mould making for the ceramics industry in 1987. She then studied sculpture at the Porto School of Fine Arts from 1988 to 1990. From 1990 to 1993 she travelled through Asia and lived in Macau, where she worked as a graphic designer. In 1994 Kristina was an artist in residence at the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park and subsequently worked as an assistant professor at the Kyoto University of Art & Design. Since 1999 she has been living in Kyoto, Japan, where she works as a freelance artist.

• Urushi lacquer is used in the course. This can cause irritation and allergies on the skin. We protect ourselves with latex gloves and a thick cotton jumper

• Course leader: Kristina Mar
• Language: English, Portuguese and Japanese
• Course duration: 10 hours
• Number of participants: Min. 6, max. 10
• The material costs for the application are included. 
• Note: No warranty claims. Liability lies with the participants.