I met a Kabazaiku producer in Paris. And I had some update about the industry in Kakunodate, Akita, where Kabazaiku comes from. It was a surprise, but somehow I knew it would come sooner or later. It was a sad news, but it made me determined on my mission. Firstly, let me share the story on Kabazaiku.
The producer Mr Tomioka told me about the situation in Kakunodate. Currently Kabazaiku producers remain only 2. 20 years ago, there were more than 40 producers. It is extinguishing as an industry and, as I said, it would disappear if we don’t do anything. Here are why.
First, there are no more demand in Japanese market. It was popular 80s and we could see Kabazaiku tealeaves container every household. But in Japan there are no more demand on those good quality traditional items.
Second, the materials are scarce now. The cherry tree bark used to be a side income for farmers. Its harvest season is in summer, only after rain season, and they secure a year-worth material. This period used to be off-season for rice producers, if they were full-time farmers. But they now have other job and farming is part-time job. Thus it is Kabazaiku producer’s job to contract with the mountain owner and forestry company to collect cherry tree bark in the mountains. No more people collect the ingredients.
Lastly, the Kabazaiku artisans are getting old and not many new disciples aren’t coming. Of course, as there is not much market demand, it is not easy to make living on this craft. Lack of new generation indicates extinction of this art, and one culture. It is simply sad.
Yet, and thus, Mr Tomioka’s story made me sure about what I am doing. Japanese beautiful things will die out if they aim only Japanese market. It needs world recognition and to reach out international market.
If they intended Japanese market, the quality of the items and the artisans is guaranteed. They will be appreciated better in the world. MONO Japanese Art’s mission is to convey the beauties from Japan. They are worth make effort on and they deserve better.