Iwate Prefecture has announced the establishment of a new facility aimed at training young craftspeople specializing in the traditional art of Wajima lacquerware. This initiative follows the devastating impacts of the Noto Peninsula earthquake, which significantly affected local craftsmanship.
At a press conference on January 6, Governor Hiroshi Haji expressed the importance of this project, stating, "We will nurture professionals who can pass on the tradition of Wajima lacquerware." This sentiment encapsulates the prefecture’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
The new training center, anticipated to open as early as the fiscal year 2027, will accept approximately five students each year, primarily targeting individuals under 40 years of age. The training program is set to encompass not only techniques of lacquer craftsmanship but also lectures by artisans and designers, providing students with invaluable skills in product development and market exploration.
Part of this initiative includes the incorporation of exhibition spaces where students can showcase their work. This aspect will also allow tourists to engage with the craft by participating in hands-on experiences, thereby promoting both education and tourism.
The concept for this facility arises from the recognition of the struggles Wajima's artisans face due to the earthquake, which placed added pressure on preserving traditional skills and adapting to changing market realities. The projected curriculum is structured to blend the time-honored techniques of Wajima lacquerware with modern business practices, ensuring students are well-equipped for future challenges.
Local leaders see this training facility as pivotal for reviving the region’s signature craft, especially as recent natural disasters have highlighted the vulnerabilities of traditional industries. By focusing on younger generations, the prefecture aims to instill pride and enthusiasm for Wajima lacquerware, which has historically been cherished for its beauty and functionality.
The initiative is part of Iwate Prefecture’s broader strategy to revitalize local economies and stimulate community spirit following the earthquake's devastation. Historically, Wajima lacquerware has been utilized from ceremonial contexts to everyday implements, so there’s deep cultural significance attached to its preservation.
This facility not only serves as an educational venue but also as a beacon of hope for the crafts community, signaling continued investment and support for traditional artisanship.
The launch of the training program for Wajima lacquerware craftspeople is expected to have long-lasting effects on the local economy and cultural heritage. Governor Haji's statement reflects the prefecture's resolve not only to restore what was lost but also to innovate and adapt so the skills of past generations may be preserved and passed on to future artisans.