Sensei Shimomura Yusuke
presents The Art of Kiri-e

Japan has a very significant presence in the autumn panel of Sofia Paper Art Fest 2023, represented by an exhibition, a junior competition and side events. Traditionally, some of these events are also part of the Days of Japanese Culture in Bulgaria. This partnership dates back to the festival’s foundation as Amateras Foundation’s cultural relations with its Japanese partners gives the citizens of Sofia unforgettable experiences every year.
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On October 13, at Mazda Gallery, a workshop was hosted among the artworks in the exhibition “Japanese Impressions”. Sensei Shimomura Jusuke visited Bulgaria to present “The Art of Kiri-e” – the ancient art of papercutting. The event aroused great interest among fans of Japanese ancient crafts. Over thirty people filled the gallery space. Under Sensei’s mentorship, they created original works that will adorn their homes. The workshop included a screening about Sensei Shimomura Yusuka with his contemporary installations that transcend craft and worthily rank among the finest examples of contemporary installation art in Japan.

Organisers complemented participants with a presentation on Japanese iced tea preparation and tasting. Hojicha and Sencha teas were kindly presented and provided by Nikolay Kandilarov.
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The event is organised under the patronage of the Embassy of Japan in Bulgaria.

Organisers: Amateras Foundation, Star Motors Bulgaria (official representative of Mazda in Bulgaria), and the Japanese Business Association for Eastern Europe.

The event is part of Sofia Paper Art Fest 2023 and is realised with the financial support of the “One-Year Grant” Program of the National Culture Fund, the Calendar of Cultural Event of Sofia Municipality 2023, and the Embassy of Japan in Bulgaria.