Craft Across Continents: Contemporary Japanese and Western Objects: The Lassiter / Ferraro Collection

Craft Across Continents presents a diverse collection of 50 objects from Japanese and American and European makers, highlighting the interplay between Asian and Western craft practices. The collection includes ceramics, glass, and bamboo sculptures, and was gifted to the Mint Museum in 2021.

Format: Hardback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 11 December 2023
Publisher: D Giles Ltd

Craft Across Continents presents a captivating exhibition featuring a diverse array of 50 objects, divided into two distinct parts. The first section showcases an impressive collection of 22 plates, dedicated to works by renowned Japanese makers. The second section comprises 21 plates, showcasing the creations of American and European artists. To mark the midway point of this remarkable volume, a special 8-page section is included, printed on a distinct uncoated paper stock. This section boasts large-scale, full-page images, capturing the essence of the collectors and their exquisite collection. The images showcase the glass, ceramics, bamboo, and other objects in the intimate setting of the collectors' private home, providing a glimpse into their world.

The collection is a testament to the collectors' vast knowledge and passion for art. It encompasses a wide range of masterpieces, including exceptional works of twenty-first-century Japanese wood-fired ceramics. Notable artists featured in this section include Satoshi Kino and Machiko Ogawa, whose porcelain pieces showcase their mastery of form and technique. Additionally, the collection boasts an impressive array of 20-plus objects that were gifted to the Mint in 2021. These additions include further Japanese ceramics, a fine collection of Japanese bamboo sculptures by several generations of makers, showcasing the unique craftsmanship and heritage of this art form.

Furthermore, the collection includes an indigo resist-dyed wall hanging by Rowland Ricketts, an artist and farmer based in Bloomington, Indiana. Ricketts employs natural dyes and historical Japanese processes to create contemporary textiles that blend tradition and innovation. From Europe and the United States, the exhibition showcases significant glass sculptures, a groundbreaking installation by Danish maker Tobias Mohl, a captivating mobile by Polish-trained artist Anna Skibska, and exquisite examples of cast blown, and lamp-worked glass.

One of the most spectacular large glazed ceramic vessels in the collection is by the British maker, Gareth Mason. Mason's work showcases his exceptional skill and creativity, combining intricate designs with a vibrant palette of colors.

The exhibition is curated by Jen Sudul Edwards, who serves as the chief curator and curator of Contemporary Art at The Mint Museum. Joining her is Joe Earle, an author and curator with extensive experience in the field. Earle previously held the position of chair of the Asia, Oceania, and Africa department at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and also served as vice president and director for the Japan Society Gallery at Japan Society from 2007 to 2011.

Craft Across Continents is a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries and connect people from different parts of the world. It showcases the remarkable talent and creativity of artists from Japan, the United States, and Europe, and provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of these regions. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity for viewers to explore the beauty and complexity of these objects, and to appreciate the profound impact that art has on our lives.

Weight: 818g
Dimension: 239 x 262 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913875466