JCC E-Magazine November 2026

Mr Isogai giving his presentation

Mr Maeda giving a demonstration

JCC held an enlightening talk about craftsmanship through the perspectives of artisans on 3 October. Representative of Bekko Isogai Mr Isogai Tsuyoshi and Wagasa (traditional Japanese umbrellas) bamboo-frame artisan Mr Maeda Kengo specially flew in from Japan to introduce their own Japanese traditional craft to a full house. Mr Maeda also gave a Wagasa demonstration, which is extremely rare to witness even in Japan.

Both artisans were then joined by Singaporean tea master Mr Kenry Peh and artist and exhibition curator Ms Miwa Tsuyumi in a dialogue session. Professor Fushiki Kaori from Taisho University, who moderated the dialogue session, also presented on how both tangible and intangible heritage complement one another in composing culture, noting that Japan's pioneering efforts in protecting intangible cultural heritage directly influenced UNESCO's framework.

Participants also had the chance to sample hot and cold tea prepared by Pek Sin Choon, one of Singapore’s oldest Chinese tea merchants. The event concluded with a Q&A session, which drew many curious questions from the audience, including how the artisans can carry forward and adapt their craftsmanship in the modern world.

Group photo of JCC Director Ms Kawabe Akiko, Mr Isogai Tsuyoshi, Mr Maeda Kengo, Mr Kenry Peh, Ms Miwa Tsuyumi, Professor Fushiki Kaori, and the staff involved.		Mr Kenry introducing his craft
Professor Fushiki moderating the session		Ms Miwa giving an overview
Mr Isogai’s daughter expressing her interest in carrying on her father’s craft		Mr Maeda explaining about Wagasa, traditional Japanese umbrellas
Audience trying cold carbonated tea prepared by Pek Sin Choon		Lively Q&A session on craftsmanship and passing on traditions

< Home