Domestic Minimalism: The Art Of Japanese Life | Journal

In this final episode, Dr James Fox explores the art of the Japanese home. The clean minimalism of the Japanese home has been explored round the world: from modernist architecture to lifestyle stores. The origins of this aesthetic are less known however. They evolved from a system of spiritual and philosophical values which dates back centuries. We get to explore one of the last surviving traditional wooden villages in Japan and also take a deeper look at the unique spirit of Japanese craftsmen who turned joinery into an artform - building houses without the need for nails, screws or even glue. In this landmark series, art historian Dr James Fox takes us on a captivating journey through the art and history of one of the world's most enigmatic cultures. Travelling the length of Japan, James explores every inch from the falling cherry blossoms to the dazzling modern cities. Along the way James will discover for himself the importance of art and aesthetics to the Japanese life and culture. He will learn the secrets behind brush-painting, block-printing, bonsai-trimming as well as the importance of Japanese homes and how their domestication has influenced the world.