Soetsu Yanagi
About the Author
Soetsu Yanagi (1889-1961) was a pioneering Japanese philosopher, art critic, and founder of the mingei folk craft movement, which celebrated the beauty and humility of everyday handmade objects as a counterpoint to industrialized mass production. Born in Tokyo, he studied under influential thinkers and traveled extensively, immersing himself in the crafts of Korea, Japan, and beyond, where he developed his aesthetic philosophy of 'use' and 'beauty in the ordinary.' Yanagi's writings blend profound insights on aesthetics, spirituality, and craftsmanship, advocating for a return to authentic, anonymous artistry that embodies timeless human values. His seminal collection, 柳宗悦コレクション2 もの (全3巻) (ちくま学芸文庫), exemplifies his lifelong dedication to documenting and preserving the essence of traditional Japanese and Asian folk arts, influencing generations of artists and designers worldwide.
