Aizome (Indigo Dyeing) Craft Workshop

Japan House is pleased to host an aizome (indigo dyeing) workshop featuring Fukushima artist Hirohisa Saito as part of the Kogei: Traditional Arts and Crafts project. Guests will learn about the aizome craft process and history, then they can learn to stencil dye a Japanese paper fan to take home!
Aizome is a traditional dyeing technique that uses indigo plants to color fabrics a deep blue (indigo) hue. In Fukushima Prefecture, indigo production thrived in areas such as Aizubange Town and Minamiaizu Town, reaching its peak during the Meiji era (around 1900). Even today, traditional indigo dyeing techniques are preserved in Minamiaizu and other parts of the region. One notable example of Aizome’s cultural significance is its connection to local festivals. The Tajima Gion Festival, held in Minamiaizu, features traditional men's attire (asa-kamishimo, hemp ceremonial robes) dyed using locally produced indigo by skilled artisans. This highlights the deep ties between indigo dyeing and regional traditions. Additionally, stencil dyeing techniques using katagami (dye paper stencils) were widely practiced, allowing artisans to create intricate fabric patterns. In the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture, a unique style of stencil known as Aizugata was developed and produced from the Edo period to the early Showa era. Today, Aizugata remains a cherished design, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.

Reservations are required, no walk-ins or observers will be allowed due to limited space inside and the hands-on nature of the workshop. Guests will be provided with all supplies but are asked to wear clothing that they don't mind getting ink on.

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Hirohisa Saito is a printmaker and aizome (Japanese indigo dyeing) artist with nearly 40 years of experience in the field. He graduated from Nihon University College of Art in 1981 and completed additional studies at Nihon University College of Art's Art Research Institute in 1983. In 1985, he established Saito Graphic Arts. Saito spent two years in Los Angeles from 1989 as an Overseas Research Fellow for the Agency for Cultural Affairs to study screen printing. His works have been featured in solo exhibitions at various galleries and received various awards. As an educator, he is a part-time lecturer at Koriyama Women's University and a part-time lecturer at Tokyo University of the Arts. He is a Member of the Saitama Prefecture Art Association, Vice President of the Saitama Prefecture Printmakers’ Association, and Auditor of the Fukushima Watercolor Painting Association.

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Kogei ​(工芸)​ translates to traditional arts and crafts. ​​Arts and crafts include disciplines such as ceramics, textiles, woodworking, lacquerware, papermaking, and other means of artistic expression that involve considerable understanding of traditional methods and techniques. Artisans hone their skills to create objects that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. Kogei artists and their produced objects are valued for their rich history that reflect intangible cultural heritage spanning hundreds of years, as techniques and processes are passed down from generation to generation. A category of kogei is mingei​, (民芸), which translates to “folk crafts,” and is formed from ​minshu ​(民衆), meaning common people, and ​kogei ​(工芸). Art critic and philosopher Soetsu Yanagi created this term and the ​mingei movement in the 1920/30s to distinguish the value of everyday items made for ordinary use for the common person.

The Kogei exhibition and programming are supported by the Japan Foundation New York through the U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program. Japan House is proud to highlight the traditional arts and crafts of Fukushima and feature the stories of Fukushima. This program is also partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council through federal funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts.

FAQs

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

Japan House is located in the Arboretum at the University of Illinois at 2000 S. Lincoln Avenue between Kirby/Florida and Windsor Road. Parking is available in the lot to the north of Japan House (F-31 at St. Mary's Road and Lincoln) and to the south of Japan House (F-32 on Lincoln across from the Vet Med complex). Spaces are marked with a placard and must be paid with Mobile Meter ( https://mobilemeter.us/) or Park Mobile ( https://parkmobile.io/ ) phone apps, or by calling 217-207-3033. Parking is free on the weekends and after 5pm on weekdays!

There are bike racks near both parking lots. The MTD Raven and Silver comes near Japan House on Lincoln Ave but buses also service PAR/FAR and you may walk from there to Japan House.

The front door is located on the north side of the building.

Questions about accommodations or accessibility?

Please email amFwYW5ob3VzZSB8IGlsbGlub2lzICEgZWR1 if you have any questions.

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?

Yes, ticket transfers are possible with a minimum of 48 hours advance notice and if there is space in the new time requested. Please contact amFwYW5ob3VzZSB8IGlsbGlub2lzICEgZWR1 if you have any questions.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

You do not have to bring your ticket. We will just need your name to check in.

The name on the registration/ticket doesn't match the attendee. Is that okay?

The purchaser of the ticket can go to "My Tickets" and change the name to whomever will be attending.

What is the refund policy?

Your registration is refundable if you contact us at amFwYW5ob3VzZSB8IGlsbGlub2lzICEgZWR1 at least 72 hours before the date of the event. Due to the preparation required for supplies, we unfortunately do not allow for refunds after the refund deadline. We hope that you can consider the fee as a donation to support the programming instead.

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

The hariko workshop does not require any arts and craft experience but please note that participants should be comfortable with getting a little messy since there is painting. All are welcome to register but younger guests must be in attendance with a responsible adult guardian at all times. Accompanying adult(s) must also register with a ticket.

What is Tomonokai? How can I support Japan House?

Tomonokai are "Friends of Japan House." The Tomonokai program was established in 1998 with a goal of supporting Japan House programming and events and promoting an understanding of Japanese Arts and Culture. This tax deductible membership entitles you to special member benefits including discounts on events and merchandise, and vouchers for private tea ceremonies.

Japan House is non-profit and fully relies upon the generosity and kindness of supporters to continue to provide our campus and community vibrant programming that is immersive, engaging, and most importantly, that celebrates diversity! Consider becoming Tomonokai, or Friend of Japan House, or support by

Also check out other Arts events in Urbana, Craft events in Urbana, Workshops in Urbana.