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At the heart of this conversation is the idea that ‘Creativity Connects People’—across continents, generations, and disciplines. From ancient stonemason techniques and traditional woodwork to contemporary design and artistic collaboration, our panel will delve into how time-honoured skills continue to evolve in our modern world, forging new pathways of connection and expression.

The experiences of Japanese craftsmen Hiroyuki Tsujii, Kei Watanabe, Masaki Kondo who have worked on various crafts projects in the rural west of Ireland at Joseph Walsh Studios are shared. Each panelist will look back on their experience of Ireland and share their stories.


*The scheduled speaker, Mr. Patrick O'Donovan, Minister of Culture, Communication and Sports, will not be able to attend due to circumstances.

【Reflection】

**Learning from Our Past and Looking to Our Future: A Celebration of Craftsmanship and Cultural Exchange**

In a uniquely inspirational panel discussion titled "Learning from Our Past and Looking to Our Future: Creativity and Connections through Craftsmanship," attendees gathered to explore the profound intersections of creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage from the perspectives of Ireland and Japan. This event highlighted the shared values of both nations, emphasizing a reverence for tradition, mastery of craft, and the importance of innovation that springs from cultural identity.

At the heart of the discussion was the theme "Creativity Connects People," reflecting how creative expressions can bridge gaps across continents, generations, and disciplines. The panel featured esteemed Japanese craftsmen—Hiroyuki Tsujii, Kei Watanabe, and Masaki Kondo—who have spent two decades collaborating on various craft projects at Joseph Walsh Studios in rural County Cork, Ireland. Their stories and experiences provided profound insights into how traditional skills adapt and transform in our modern world, fostering new forms of connection and expression.

Deniz Ozturk, Deputy Commissioner General at the Ireland Pavilion, opened the session, her introduction set the stage for a conversation focused on the theme "Imagination Connects People," a testament to the enduring bond created through craftsmanship and cultural exchange.

Masaki Kondo, the first Japanese craftsman to work at Joseph Walsh Studios, shared memories of his arrival in Ireland nearly 20 years ago—a time devoid of smartphones and social media. Kondo recounted landing in County Cork, overwhelmed by the sight of sheep by the runway and a strong sense of belonging. He humorously illustrated his first dining experience with Walsh, reflecting on how he chose lamb without understanding the full implications of his choice—highlighting the cultural nuances and the warmth of their growing friendship.

Kondo described the workshop environment, nestled in a picturesque farm setting, where the sounds of mooing cows harmonized with the creative buzz of craftsmen from around the world. From British and German craftsmen to artisans from Finland, France, and Argentina, Kondo noted how diverse perspectives contributed to a unique creative atmosphere.

As the discussion unfolded, Kondo introduced several pieces he had worked on, including the Figure Six Chair, which embodied his initial bewilderment as he navigated new techniques. This piece resonated with the uncertainty and excitement he felt as a newcomer. He also spoke of the Sense project, an endeavor powered by innovation through stack lamination techniques, revealing how traditional craftsmanship melds with contemporary design.
The Prism Table was another highlight, representing the high precision required in its X-shaped structure, a fitting metaphor for the craft community that thrives on connections, both intricate and robust. Each piece told a story not just of design but of the relationship fostered between cultures, embodying the spirit of collaboration and shared knowledge.

Ultimately, the panel discussion illustrated that the essence of craftsmanship transcends borders, creating a rich tapestry of shared experiences and learnings. These stories of resilience, creativity, and connection affirm that cultural exchange continues to inspire innovation and understanding, creating pathways toward a more interconnected and appreciative world. As Ireland and Japan continue to nurture these ties through their crafts, the future promises further enriching collaboration, where imagination truly connects people.

【Post EXPO Initiatives】

Honoring Craft, Fostering Connection, and Inspiring Future Generations

Building on the rich dialogue and emotional resonance of “Learning from Our Past and Looking to Our Future: Creativity and Connections through Craftsmanship,” we are committed to continuing the spirit of exchange and collaboration that defined this event. The stories shared—of friendship forged through craftsmanship, of tradition evolving into innovation, and of cultures coming together through shared creativity—serve as the foundation for our next steps. Our post-Expo initiative includes the following:

1. Craftsmen-in-Residence Exchange Program

We aim to establish an annual artist exchange between Ireland and Japan, offering craftsmen the opportunity to live and work in each other's countries. This hands-on program will facilitate skill sharing, cultural immersion, and the development of collaborative works that reflect a blend of both traditions.

2. “Imagination Connects People” Exhibition Series

Inspired by the powerful stories told at the Expo, we plan to curate a traveling exhibition that showcases the works and personal journeys of craftsmen like Masaki Kondo and his colleagues. The exhibition will highlight key pieces such as the Figure Six Chair, Sense project, and Prism Table, alongside narrative content to emphasize the human story behind each creation.

3. Digital Storytelling & Archival Project
To preserve and amplify these cultural narratives, we will develop a digital archive that documents the ongoing collaboration between Irish and Japanese craftspeople. This will include video interviews, photo essays, and interactive timelines tracing the evolution of shared techniques and designs.

4, Youth Engagement Through Craft Education
We will partner with design schools and craft institutes in both countries to create educational modules and mentorship opportunities for young artisans. By sharing stories from established craftsmen and providing opportunities for skill development, we hope to inspire a new generation of makers who value cultural exchange and craftsmanship.

5. Annual “Craft & Culture” Symposium

Building on the success of this panel, we propose launching an annual symposium that brings together global voices in craftsmanship. Hosted alternately in Ireland and Japan, the event will feature panels, workshops, and showcases aimed at deepening the discourse around tradition, innovation, and cultural identity in craft.

This initiative is grounded in the belief that craftsmanship is a universal language—one that not only preserves history but also builds bridges between cultures. As the collaboration between Ireland and Japan continues to flourish, we are excited to nurture these connections, ensuring that imagination, respect, and creativity remain at the heart of our shared future.

Ireland Pavilion