We are from Japan! Is there any artwork related to cultural exchange between Japan and America?
Yes! It is fascinating to see how Japanese art inspired American artists and designers, especially after our countries began trading in 1853.
There is a chair by the designers Greene and Greene that places little pieces of dark ebony wood over the structural joins of the chair, in order to draw attention to the beauty of utility. Apparently this is something that was done in traditional Japanese architecture.
Found it!
That's the one! At this time, American decorative arts was becoming very industrialized. Many people idealized Japan as a place where handmade craftsmanship was appreciated and preserved.Many Americans admired the simplicity of Japanese design in comparison to the over-the-top, heavily ornamented mass-produced objects on the market. What do you think of it?
I agree that the simplicity is one face of the beauty of Japanese culture. On the other hand there are also excessively decorative preferences in some parts of Japan. The sense of beauty in Japan has can be so diverse depending on region.
So interesting! It's fascinating what American artists picked up on when they looked to Japan for inspiration.
Thank you! We are leaving the museum now. We enjoyed the conversation with you and this is one of the best museums in NYC!