Designer David Tonge on the Essence of Japanese Craft
Introduction — Craft as a Form of Thought
Craft is not merely about making things. So says David Tonge, a London-based designer who has worked with Japanese companies and craftspeople for over two decades.
What captivates Tonge is not simply the finished object, but the thinking behind it — the approach to materials, the philosophy of process, and the cultural significance embedded in technique. He is drawn to how these invisible elements are made tangible through Japanese craft.
This interview marks the first in a new series exploring the spirit and evolution of Japanese craft through conversations with global designers, curators, and cultural practitioners. In this inaugural piece, Tonge discusses wabi-sabi, imperfection, handcraft philosophy, and the cultural contrasts that shape how we perceive and create.
Q1 — The True Appeal of Craft Lies in Its Thinking, Not Just Its Materials
Q: When you think of Japanese craft, what materials or techniques come to mind?
Honestly, it’s really hard to choose just one. Of course, lacquer, indigo dye, gold leaf — they’re all fascinating…
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