Japanese Culture

Documentaries

Why are the Japanese so Lonely? | Salari

Salari, the creator of this documentary gives it the description, "Since Japan's economic troubles began in the 90s, the country's population has continued to suffer by attempting to keep up with the endless demand for productivity. Over the past few decades, it has become increasingly evident that the longstanding culture and traditions of Japan are inherently incompatible with capitalism, and its people have had to sacrifice their need for love and intimacy in order to keep the system afloat. This documentary explores the culture of Japan, and how the demands of capitalism work in direct opposition to them, resulting in one of the unhappiest developed nations in the world." under the video. I recommend this documentary because it is executed in a comprehensible and detailed way while shining light on the aspects and issues within Japan.

Arts

The Art and Technique of Sumi-E Japanese Ink Painting: Japanese Ink Painting as Taught by Ukai Uchiyama by Kay Morrissey Thompson

Sumi-e: All You Need to Know About Japanese Ink Painting

This is a guide created by Ukai Uchiyama that focuses on the traditional Sumi-e painting of Japan. Sumi-e painting or ink wash painting originated in China during the Song Dynasty. In the 14th century, zen Buddhist monks brought it to Japan. Considered a zen art, the Japanese evolved this painting in a more minimalistic style with simpler strokes that hold a lot of meaning. Japanese black ink painting is traditionally monochrome, however, the Japanese Sumi-e painting style has had its influence on other mediums, especially watercolors. If you want to learn more about Sumi-e painting and how it captures the aesthetics of Japan, this article "Sumi-e: All You Need to Know About Japanese Ink Painting", by Shozo Sato may be a good beginning as it is straightforward and packs in a lot of information in a simple way. Some artists who practice the Sumi-e style include Flor Kaneshiro and Virginia Lloyd-Davies.