Special Invitation to the Art of Kokeshi - A Cultural and Hands-On Experience with a Master Artisan from Japan

About this event

An Exclusive Invitation for Our Donors and Supporters

The Art of Kokeshi: Japanese Traditional Wooden Doll

A Cultural and Hands-On Experience with a Master Artisan from Japan

An Exclusive Invitation for Our Donors and Supporters

This special Friday session is a private, invitation-only gathering for donors, longtime supporters, and board members of the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix. Advance ticket purchase is required to attend this session.

In addition to experiencing the art and culture of kokeshi, this gathering offers a special opportunity to connect with fellow supporters of the Garden. Guests will have the chance to meet and interact with longtime donors, community supporters, and members of our Board while enjoying a shared cultural experience in an intimate setting.

We are grateful for your continued support of the Garden and our mission to foster friendship, cultural understanding, and community connection.

This Friday session is by invitation only and is not open to the general public.

Description

Discover the beauty and cultural significance of traditional Japanese wooden dolls, known as kokeshi. Celebrated for their simple, elegant forms and expressive designs, kokeshi reflect a deep sense of Japanese aesthetics and heritage.

In this workshop, a master artisan will share the history, techniques, and artistry behind kokeshi through an engaging talk and live demonstration. Participants will then enjoy a hands-on experience, painting their own pre-made kokeshi doll using Japanese brushes and traditional pigments, creating a unique keepsake to take home.

Unable to join us on Friday?

The workshop content will be the same as the public workshop offered on Saturday. If you are unable to attend this private Friday session, we invite you to consider purchasing a ticket for the Saturday workshop.

Date & Time

Friday, November 13th, 2026

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

( Limited seats: 16 participants per session)

Check-in: 15 minutes before start

Fee

General: $120/ Member: 10% off (please log in as a member)

Includes all materials & Garden admission

Message from Mr. Sato, Artisan of Traditonal Kokeshi Doll

Kijidokoro Sato is a traditional kokeshi doll studio founded in 1926. We preserve the traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations since the Edo period (1603–1868), and take pride in creating kokeshi dolls that are loved even in the modern era. All of the wood we use is domestically sourced, natural timber. We remain committed to crafting products filled with time, effort, and the artisan's spirit.

https://www.kijidaruma.com/

Workshop Schedule

Location: Office Conference Room

Workshop Content / Program (120 min total)

1. Welcome & Introduction (10 min)

• Overview of the program schedule and introduction of the artisan

• Purpose or goal of this workshop

2. Artist Talk (20 min)

• History, symbolism, and cultural role of kokeshi dolls

• Artisan's experiences

3. Demonstration (20 min)

• Artisan demonstrates painting and finishing techniques

• Explanation of tools, materials, and design symbolism

4. Hands-On Experience (60 min)

• Step-by-step guidance to create your own kokeshi doll design

• Instruction on using brushes and finishing techniques, including preparation of ink

• Tips on decorating and presenting your work

5. Sharing & Cultural Exchange (10 min)

• Showcase participants' creations

• Q & A

6. Closing & Farewell (10 min)

• Artisan's reflections and key takeaways

• Shopping opportunity: purchase artisan products or tools

• Thank you and farewell