Articles of the Series
Living Beside Tradition
Women who married into families that carry on traditional crafts. Balancing the artisan's family business, community ties, and raising children... This series portrays the reality and hope of craftsmanship from the “other side of the story” that is rarely spoken of.
A Long, Steady Flame: A Wife's Work to Keep the Business Burning
Shoko Omori supports Omori Warosokuya by managing customer service, inventory, the online store, and international shipping, allowing her artisan husband to focus on production. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple reconsidered the business and now emphasize delivering warosoku to people who understand and actively use them.
From Tokyo to Chichibu: Becoming an Artisan's Wife While Raising Four Children and My Role at Arakei Textile
Sonoe Arai of Shinkei Orimono moved from Tokyo to Chichibu when her husband succeeded the family business, balancing the raising of four children with supporting the production of Chichibu Meisen. While handling public relations, sales, and craftsmanship, she has gradually found her own role in preserving and passing on the traditional textile craft.
Captivated by Kishu Chests: The Journey of Chiaki Azuma, the First Female Traditional Craftswoman
After working in the apparel industry, Chiaki Azuma joined a Kishu Tansu workshop following her marriage and pursued a career as a craftsperson while raising children. As Japan’s first female Traditional Craftsman in this field, she promotes the value of paulownia wood and continues efforts to carry the tradition into the next generation.
From Self-Taught to Metalwork Artisan: Emi Sashou's Journey of Handicraft and Family at Jewelry Sashou
"An artisan's work is incredibly fun, you know," says Emi Sashou with a laugh.
Hisako Kubode of Shozu Shikko: Finding Her Own Unique Role
In Kaga City, Ishikawa Prefecture, "Shozu Shikko" (匠頭漆工) creates exquisite lacquerware.
As a Wife, Mother, & Supporter of Traditional Craft—Sayaka Ikeda of the Ikeda Kasuri Textile for Kurume Kasuri
It is not only the artisans who inherit and perfect their skills that support Japanese traditional crafts.