Mending Cracks in Time: Kintsugi Art of Naoko Fukumaru
Open to the public Saturday, October 17, 2026 – Sunday, February 28, 2027
Member Preview Day: Friday, October 16, 2026
Kintsugi is not only an art form but also a deeply philosophical point of view in Japan. Traditionally, broken ceramics are mended with all natural lacquer (urushi) tree sap mixed with powdered gold, which exaggerates the repair rather than hides it. Fukumaru takes this tradition that dates back to 15th century Japan and propels it into the 21st century.
With her professional background as a ceramic conservator at major museums in the US and Japan, she has developed a deep understanding of the key components of the raw materials – ceramic, lacquer and metal. Fukumaru blends this scientific understanding with an artistic ability guided by her own personal journey of restoration and recovery. She employs a wide variety of sources including master ceramic works, tea ceremony utensils, everyday vessels, imported wares, kiln-deformed pieces and a singular installation piece.
Through this collection of over 160 individual items, a contemplative space is created, which invites visitors to reflect on their own experiences of loss, resilience, healing and renewal. This exhibition is produced by the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens with support from the Herni & Tomoye Takahashi Charitable Foundation and the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation.
It’s Okay to be Broken
by Naoko FUKUMARU
Persian (Iranian) stoneware, calcium carbonate, lacquer and 23.5K gold
ca. 10th century to 14th century, restored 2023
7” Di.
Secret Life
by Naoko FUKUMARU
Excavated stoneware fragments from Heinz Laffin Pottery in Canada, calcium carbonate, resin, barnacles, lacquer and 23.5K gold
21st century, restored 2024
4.75” L
Beautiful Trauma – Rango
by Naoko FUKUMARU
Pre-Columbian double vase fragment, lacquer, resin, calcium carbonate and 23.5K gold
Unknown, restored 2026
Raku ceramic fragments, lacquer, resin, black berry thorns and brass
10.5” L
This exhibition was made possible in part by the Canada Council for the Arts.
