Embroidery as an art form in Japan has a history stretching back more than one thousand years, and is intrinsically linked to other textile art forms such as dyeing. 

Born in Kyoto in 1932, Mr Fukuda learnt the traditional techniques under the guidance of his father. In 1997, after a long and distinguished career, Mr Fukuda was designated as one of Japan’s Living National Treasures, a prestigious title awarded to certain masters of traditional crafts and performances. Mr Fukuda is the first and sole Living National Treasure in the field of embroidery.

The greatest of his work employs a subtle gradation of few tones, fluidly expressing natural elements such as the sky, clouds, flowers and water.  In pursuit of his work, Mr Fukuda has managed to produce creations of high quality, endowed with a refined elegance and graceful style.

In his lecture, Mr Fukuda will discuss the role of embroidery in kimono design, the process of creating his work, and will provide an interpretation of some of his creations.  This is a rare opportunity to meet a Living National Treasure and the foremost expert in his field, and is not to be missed.