In today’s culture, broken things are usually discarded. Whether with a cracked plate, a broken relationship, or a failed project, our natural tendency is to move forward and reach for something else. However, the ancient Japanese art of Kintsugi offers us a different approach.

Kintsugi became commonplace in late 16th century Japan as a way for families to mend broken teaware. Emerging from the wabi-sabi aesthetic, Kintsugi embraced imperfection and brokenness as the way to a more beautiful creation. The Japanese word “kin" means “gold,” and “tsugi" means “mend.” “Tsugi" also means “to link the generations together.” So by filling cracks with gold, Kintsugi masters turned broken objects into stunning reminders of beauty and strength across generations.

Japanese painter, author, and co-founder of Academy Kintsugi Makoto Fujimura says, "Your generation will mend, and pour gold into the fissures of our broken times. And you can not only mend; you can create anew."

Award-winning recording artist Tiffany Thompson is a close collaborator of Fujimura's and one of Academy Kintsugi's certified instructors. Her sessions include:

• 3 hours of small group instruction

• All the necessary materials for mending a broken item

• Access to personal kits to mend additional items and develop a Kintsugi practice

• Live music

• Hands-on help for each participant's piece

• A private space to learn and connect

• Non-alcoholic refreshments

Many Kintsugi participants find it challenging to find broken pottery, dishes, or mugs in their homes because we just throw them away. Learning to see broken things as items to mend, not throw away, is part of the wisdom of Kintsugi. For those interested in attending, but lacking a broken item, Tiffany will provide one for you.

Two types of tickets are available:

• 3-Hour Workshop with a personal kit that mends up to 20 pieces.

• 3-Hour Workshop with on-site materials to mend 1 piece.

Please read the ticket descriptions for more details about the kits and options.

This experience is capped at 10 people to ensure the proper depth of conversation and hands-on help. No refunds are available, but you are welcome to give your seat to someone else.

Get tickets on Eventbrite.