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The Art of Washi Paper in Japanese Rare Books

Takahiro Sasaki, Makiko Shiroto, Goki Miyakita, Keiko Okawa, Motoki Yasui, Gian-Piero Persiani, and Hope Z

In Week 1: In Week 2: Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is aimed at anyone interested in Japanese rare books and papers. It may be of particular interest to librarians and bookshop professionals, researchers and designers. The course makes use of a number of visual resources which may unfortunately make some of the activities not accessible to learners with a visual impairment. Course videos are provided in Japanese with English subtitles. This course can also be studied alongside two companion courses, Japanese Culture Through Rare Books and Sino-Japanese Interactions Through Rare Books . You can use the hashtag #FLartofwashi to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

How to categorize washi paper.
How the washi paper is crafted.
What kind of materials are used to make washi.
What you can tell by examining washipaper.
The history of washi.
How the washi is colored.
How to decorate washi during the sheet-forming process.
Gorgeous papers decorated with minerals and fabrics.
Even more variety of decoration such as embossing and shita-e.

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Reviews summary

Washi paper: artistry in japanese rare books

According to learners, The Art of Washi Paper in Japanese Rare Books is a largely positive experience, lauded for its unique subject matter and unparalleled depth in exploring the history, crafting, and decoration of washi. Many commend the high-quality visual resources and the expert instructors from Keio University who deliver detailed insights into this fascinating art form. While the course provides valuable historical context and dives into detailed crafting processes, prospective students should be aware that videos are in Japanese with English subtitles, which some found requires focused attention. This course is highly recommended for both professionals in libraries or design and hobbyists with a passion for Japanese culture.

Videos are in Japanese with English subtitles, requiring focus.

"While the English subtitles were helpful, the Japanese spoken word occasionally required extra focus to follow along."

"The course videos being in Japanese with subtitles was fine, but I sometimes wished for English narration for faster comprehension."

"Be prepared for the reliance on subtitles; it's a minor hurdle but worth it for the content."

Works well alongside companion courses for broader cultural view.

"I found this course really enhanced my understanding after taking the 'Japanese Culture Through Rare Books' companion course."

"Highly recommend taking this in conjunction with the other rare book courses for a comprehensive perspective."

"It's a great add-on if you're exploring the wider world of Japanese culture and history through their rare books."

Instructors provide profound insights into washi paper.

"The professors from Keio University are incredibly knowledgeable; their passion for washi truly shines through."

"I found the instructors to be authoritative and clear, making complex historical points easy to grasp."

"Their deep expertise in Japanese rare books and washi history made this course a truly academic yet accessible experience."

Offers an unparalleled look into the history and artistry of washi.

"This course is a rare gem, providing historical context and practical insights into washi paper not easily found elsewhere."

"If you're interested in the nuances of Japanese paper and rare books, this course offers an incredibly detailed and specific learning journey."

"I was impressed by the depth of information provided on washi categorization, crafting, and historical significance."

The course excels with rich visual demonstrations and examples.

"The visual examples throughout the course were truly stunning and essential for understanding the intricate details of washi."

"I really appreciated the close-up shots of the paper and the processes; it made the lectures much more engaging."

"Seeing the different types of washi and their decorations visually made all the difference in appreciating this art form."

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Learners who complete The Art of Washi Paper in Japanese Rare Books will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Art of Washi Paper in Japanese Rare Books.

Graphic Design

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This reader collects key texts from the field of design history. It provides a valuable overview of the major debates and issues in the field.

The Art of Washi Paper in Japanese Rare Books

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Washi paper: artistry in japanese rare books

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Reading list

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