My friend invited me to join her in Shizuoka City to attend the Japan Skills Olympics. I had never heard of anything like this, so I was happy to say yes! The venue was a huge exhihibition area in several buildings.
Participants compete in various areas, with everyone making the same thing in a set amount of time. Observers could watch from outside the area. Each area had officials to watch the making. I'm not sure why - surely you can't cheat in a competition like this. Afterwards, the finished pieces were judged. I don't know what all of the things are, but I'll try to explain anyway. Flash photos and talking to competetors was prohibited.
Wood Furniture Making
Room Painting - finished.
Glass Construction - this competition was finished and was being judged when I saw it.
Screens or frames ? I don't know.
Tetami Floor - this competition was finished and was being judged when I saw it.
Women's Suit Making
Fabric Repair - I don't know what the name of this is, but competitors used some chemicals to remove stains and repaint the fabric.
This is very cool. I guess it is like les meilleurs ouvriers in France. Being recognized as the best in your field must really boost you up.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful way to make sure Japanese artisan skills continue!
ReplyDeletewow Pamela so much to see,so any different trades,what an amazing day.
ReplyDeleteInteresting photos Pamela and what a great exhibition, so much to see and watch, looks difficult making kimonos sitting on the floor.
ReplyDeleteThat is pretty cool! I kind of wish we had something like that, it's great to see things other than sports and music recognized in such a way!
ReplyDeletethat looks brilliant! i wish we had something like that.
ReplyDeleteWhat an interesting event, so good to see.
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