Week 5

Bell, E.K. (1998). The Japan Inspiration: Influence in crafts and design. The Australian Antique Collector, December 1997-June 1998, pp. 107-111. Retrieved March 4, 2011 from The University of Canberra E-Reserve Database.

The Week 5 reading 'The Japan Inspiration by E. K Bell looks at the profound effects the opening of Japan in c1854 and the subsequent trade with the West played on international design.  From the mid 19th century, as Japanese artifacts began to appear in international exhibitions around the world, international designers and artists alike were inspired by the new styles, forms and visual iconography that appeared in Japanese arts and crafts.  Artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent Van Gogh and James McNeil Whistler reinterpreted their work with the new inspiration that came from Japanese prints.  Japanese influence also then led to new art movements such as Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, aesthetic movement and Art Nouveau.
Although it was not only the international exhibitions but also proponents such as Christopher Dresser and Edward Godwin that led to the popularity of Japanese artifacts in Britain for Godwin.  Japanese designs found their way into many of his designs in furniture, interiors and buildings.  While Dresser was invited by Emperor Meiji to advise the Government on art and manufacturing on his return to Britain dresser published the book 'Japan: Its Architecture, Art and Are Manufacturers'.  The book is still in publication today. Interestingly, the Japanese Government also sent representatives to art exhibitions, to learn from the west and to understand the tastes of western markets.
Bell (1998, pg 109) continues in her article to discuss the Japanese influence on the Art Nouveau movement, particularly the "use of asymmetrical organic form, the particular organisation of pictorial space, the use of calligraphic line and the incorporation of plant and insect iconography." (pg 109). And it is these stylistic newaunces that make Art Nouveau what it is.
This is an imporant article for any design student to read as it conveys the influence that Japan and its culture has played on international design. From Architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright to ceramic artists such as Emile Galle Japan has played a huge influence on international design and art movements.