This exhibition features contemporary woodblock prints created by Japan-based artists who have been involved with the MI-LAB International Mokuhanga Laboratory. As part of international collaboration, works produced by Indian artists are also showcased.

Water-based woodblock printing allows for soft, nuanced expressions that highlight the natural grain of the wood, as well as richly layered multicolor printing. Even when following the same process, variations in printing pressure, pigment absorption, and the type of washi paper used result in distinct textures—offering visitors a wide range of artistic styles to enjoy.

About MI-LAB (International Mokuhanga Laboratory)

MI-LAB was established in 2011 by the Institute of Industrial Humanics to promote water-based woodblock printing internationally. It operates as a residency-style studio primarily for overseas artists. In December 2023, the studio relocated from Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi-Pref. to Awatabe town, Echizen City, Fukui-Pref. where it now serves as a place for direct exchange between artists and the traditional washi-producers.

Echizen City’s traditional crafts and cultural arts—preserved for over a thousand years—have gained global recognition. On October 31, 2025, the city was officially admitted to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the field of Crafts & Folk Art.
 

The “Creative City Promotion Exhibition” series celebrates this milestone. In fiscal year 2026, two exhibitions has been held to showcase Echizen’s craftsmanship and cultural arts to the world.
 

FY2026 Exhibition Schedule

• (1) “2026 Japan–Germany Exchange: Kami-Washi — The Future of Kami-Washi Exchange” May 17 – June 7
• (2) “Echizen Washi and Contemporary Woodblock Prints” July 11 – August 16

Exhibition Information

Dates July 11 (Sat) – August 16 (Sun), 2026

Closed Mondays (except holidays), and the day following a holiday

Opening Hours 10:00–18:00 (last admission 17:30) 

Takefu Public Hall Memorial Museum 2nd Floor – Exhibition Rooms 2 & 3

Free