Yanagi Soetsu

Yanagi Soetsu was a Japanese art critic and crafts movement leader in the early 20th century. He championed the idea that everyday, traditional crafts—like pottery, textiles, and woodworking—should be appreciated for their beauty and skill, emphasizing their deep connection to Japanese culture. His movement aimed to elevate handcrafted objects to fine art status, encouraging a sense of cultural pride and preserving Japan’s artisanal traditions amid modernization. Yanagi’s influence helped foster a renewed appreciation for handmade crafts and the importance of cultural heritage in Japan.