The course covers several – but far from all – aspects of Japanese art and culture. I plan to discuss – with the use of many illustrative images - and probably in this order: 1: Introduction. Writing: Calligraphy, Women’s Writing of the Heian Period, Haiku; 2: The Kimono and its Accessories; 3: Lacquer, Metalwork and Ceramics; 4: Samurai Arts; 5: Painting and Woodblock Prints; 6: Theatre: Noh, Kabuki, Kyogen, Bunraku; 7: Gardens and Ikebana (Flower Arrangement); 8: Leisure: Tea, Sake, Geisha Arts. The aim of the course is to introduce these various aspects of Japanese culture to those who are interested, leading perhaps to a broader understanding of Japanese aesthetics. Our cultures first encountered one another more than four centuries ago and the course will explore the arts of Japan through their reception in the West. I hope those who attend will enjoy the continuing conversation.
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