Japan Design Committee is pleased to present the 796th Design Gallery 1953 exhibition, “The Art of Yuki Tsumugi: Making and Refining”
Yuki Tsumugi is a representative Japanese silk fabric in which many ancient techniques, from spinning the thread to weaving, have been passed down. Its soft, airy texture and character that deepens with age have long been cherished by many kimono enthusiasts.
The artisans who create Yuki Tsumugi are constantly Refining something. There seems to be little distinction between the act of making and the act of Refining. While handcrafted work is often valued for its irregularities and variations, this exhibition focuses on the act of “Refining” within the craft to introduce the work of Yuki Tsumugi. We hope it will provide an opportunity to reconsider what handcrafted work truly entails. We sincerely hope you will take the time to view it.
Additionally, we will exhibit the “Yuki Tsumugi Sample Book” (designed by Nobuhiro Yamaguchi, bookmaking by Tatsuhiko Niijima), which compiles vintage Yuki Tsumugi fabrics.
Message from Reiko Sudo, Exhibition Derector
Yuki Tsumugi is a silk fabric primarily produced in Yuuki City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Its history is ancient, said to date back to before the Nara period. Every step of its creation—from hand-spinning thread from stretched raw silk (mawata) to weaving it without twisting—embodies a culture of handcrafted work. The beautiful colors emanating from its restrained weave patterns and the designs that exude a lingering elegance within their refinement embody the condensed skill of Yuki Tsumugi’s history.
Exhibition Outline
- Title: The 796th Design Gallery 1953 Exhibition
“The Art of Yuki Tsumugi: Making and Refining” - Dates: December 27 (Sat), 2025— February 16 (Mon), 2026, 11:00 a.m.− 8:00 p.m.; closing at 5:00 p.m. on the last day ; free admission
- Venue: Matsuya Ginza 7th floor, Design Gallery 1953
- Organizer: Japan Design Committee
- Supported by: Okujun Co. Ltd.
- Cooperation: Yamaguchi Design Office, Harumin Asao, Shizuka Suzuki, Shinohara Shiko Ltd. Abstract Engine Co., Ltd. Toyama Textiles, NUNO Corporation
- Exhibition Director: Reiko Sudo
Please refer to the Matsuya Ginza website for the opening hours and other information.
Okujun
Founded in 1907 (Meiji 40). As a manufacturer and wholesaler in the Yuki Tsumugi silk weaving region, we have handled pattern design, placing orders with and purchasing from weavers, and distribution. We also manage securing the raw material, thread, and perform the final finishing process for bolts of fabric—the boiling process (removing starch). Furthermore, we operate tourist facilities including a museum and develop new products such as shawls, expanding our business to widely promote Yuki Tsumugi.
