Kintsugi for Beginners: Repair and Reconnect

Discover the art and philosophy of Kintsugi, the Japanese practice of repairing broken ceramics. Traditionally, Kintsugi developed as a practical way to extend the life of treasured objects. Rooted in Japanese ideas of impermanence (mujō) and the spirit of mottainai—a respect for resources and a reluctance to waste—Kintsugi encourages care, repair, and continued use rather than replacement.

Traditional Kintsugi uses urushi (Japanese lacquer), a waterproof and food-safe material that allows repaired vessels to return to everyday use.Through generations of craftsmanship, broken bowls, cups, and plates were repaired not only to preserve their function, but also to honor the history they carried. While this introductory workshop uses modern materials suitable for beginners, participants will gain an understanding of the traditional process and the craftsmanship behind it.

Today, many people are also drawn to Kintsugi for its broader message. The visible repairs remind us that breakage and repair are natural parts of life, and that imperfections need not be hidden. For some, Kintsugi becomes a metaphor for resilience, healing, and transformation—an invitation to see challenges not as endings, but as opportunities for renewal and growth.

In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the history and cultural significance of Kintsugi while completing a repair using a beginner-friendly modern method. Students will work with a prepared ceramic plate and learn techniques for joining broken pieces, filling seams, sanding surfaces, and applying a gold finish.

By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with:

• A repaired ceramic plate completed using modern Kintsugi techniques
• An understanding of the history, philosophy, and cultural context of Kintsugi
• Knowledge of materials, tools, and pathways for continuing the practice

Returning students are welcome. Students who have previously taken a Kintsugi workshop with Mami Takahashi may bring a small ceramic item for instructor approval or continue practicing on a more complex repair while receiving individualized guidance.

*This class will use epoxy putty in addition to the ceramic glue. This may make students’ fingers sticky, and some epoxy residue might alsoremain on their fingers for a few days. The instructor has gloves available for students who need them.

No experience required. All materials are provided.

About the instructor:

Mami Takahashi is a Japanese multidisciplinary artist and a scholar working both in Chicago and Tokyo. She received her MFA in Contemporary Studio Practice from Portland State University in 2013 and earned a BFA in Japanese Painting from Joshibi University of Art and Design in Japan. For more details, visit https://mamitakahashi.art/

With ongoing artistic research, practice, and teaching, Takahashi explores different approaches to actualize Japanese aesthetics to enhance cultural perspectives to many U.S. communities. Takahashi also aims to connect Japan and communities in Chicago by teaching traditional and modern art-making techniques.