Calligraphy
Known as shodo, the way of writing, the art of calligraphy
was introduced to Japan along with the Chinese writing
system in the 5th century ad came to be considered
as an essential accomplishment for the cultured person.
Traditional writing implements consists of a brush,
ink, and inkstone, and a water vessel. Buddhist monks
have often led the development of styles through the
centuries. Modern calligraphy has been influenced
by Western Minimalist and Abstract art.
Painting
Early paintings include religious mandalas, and scrolls
illustrating works such as the Tale of Genhi. Ink
painting thrived in the 14th century; its most famous
practitioner was the Zen monk Sesshu (1420-1506).
The Kano School was most noted for its screens. Ukiyo-e
woodblock prints predominated in the Edo period. Modern
painting in Japan is inspired by Western and traditional
sources.
Ceramics
Ceramics up to 12,000 years old have been found in
Japan. Myriad styles have developed in different areas,
fueled by the central role of ceramics in the tea
ceremony and cuisine. Kyushu is renowned for its porcelain
and stoneware; Hagi and Inbe produce stoneware for
the tea ceremony; Mashiko is known for its folk pottery
and as the birthplace of 20th century potter Hamada
Shoji.
Textiles
Sophisticated methods of dyeing, weaving, and hand
decoration have developed in Japan, resulting in an
astonishing range of textiles. Relatively isolated
islands and areas evolved their own techniques; for
example, the Okinawans use the kasuri method to tie-dye
threads before weaving. Yuzen-dyeing in Kanazawa uses
a paste for resist-dyeing to create complex and colorful
designs, often using natural vegetables dyes. Indigo
(ai) was the most popular dye, though it has largely
been replaced by synthetic alternatives. Modern designers
such as Issey Miyake continue to experiment boldly
with fabrics.
Woodcraft, Bamboo, and Lacquerware
The Japanese admire the grain and color of wood as
much as the artifacts that are created from it. Traditional
buildings have been made from wood for centuries;
some are still in existence as a testament to their
makers' craftsmanship. On a smaller scale there are
exquisite wooden statues, along with wooden vessels
and utensil, and traditional dolls. To produce lacquerware,
for which Japan is famed worldwide, the wood is coated
with many layers of lacquer (derived from tree sap)
and burnished to a smooth, lustrous finish. Bamboo,
being strong and flexible, is used for umbrellas,
toys, and baskets.