This Japanese fair is probably a little different than the ones you’re used to. The first-ever Palette Japan Festival in Singapore puts the spotlight on traditional and contemporary Japanese craftsmanship, with master artisans hosting workshops for a full-on immersive cultural experience. There are five exclusive, authentic hands-on sessions where you can learn more from experts about the different centuries-old Japanese traditional crafts. Discover the sashiko stitching technique, meditative hand embroidery, sew-on beading, flower crafting and how to craft your own miniature zōri slippers. Each session is limited to 10 participants only, so make sure to register your interest in advance for a slot.
Aside from the workshops, the event also presents the official book launch of festival founder Tomoko Ota’s debut publication, Tsumami Zaiku to the World. The booklet combines essays and poems that introduce the Japanese art of folding fabric into small, delicate flowers and its significance. The launch coincides with Palette Japan’s Tsumami Zaiku Advanced Course Showcase, which presents works from the programme’s pioneer batch of students following a period of intensive training.