The World of Washi

September 1, 2005-October 31, 2005
Location: Elevator Gallery

The original idea of this exhibit was conceived two years ago, when a notable Japanese scholar, Prof. Mitsuhiko Shibata, introduced the Hamilton staff and LIS students to the wonderful traditions and depths of the Japanese hand-made paper - washi. The traditional washi making process has changed little for over 1,000 years. We hope that the World of Washi Exhibit will provide everyone an opportunity to "experience" this traditional art of paper making.

The Exhibit will also explore how washi paper is used for Japanese books. You will have a wonderful opportunity to enjoy rare Japanese books at the Library Treasures Exhibit of the UH Art Gallery from September 18 and we sincerely hope you will appreciate the artistic form of these books as well as their content.

Reprints of the traditional paper making illustrations were donated in 2003 but they were destroyed by the flash flood disaster. Another set was donated for this Exhibit by Yushodo Shoten, Japanese antiquarian book dealer. The pictures were taken in 2004 at Ogawa-cho, Saitama-prefecture, where famous "Ogawa-shi (Ogawa Paper)" has been produced for hundred years.

Special appreciation for:

Ms. Yoko Kudo, Assistant to the Japan Specialist Librarian and LIS graduate student. She researched washi after the workshop.

Yoko incorporated her research and Preservation Class report into this exhibit. This is her first exhibit creation and it is just before she graduates in December 2005. Ms. Yoko Ruichi and Ms. Tomoko Mochihara, student assistants, and Ms. Etsuko Chopey, Office Assistant of the Asia Collection, who provided their skillful hands in preparation for the exhibit.

Mr. Scott Reinke, Conservation Specialist of the Preservation Department.

Step 4 - Removing the Black Bark:
Shirokawa, or white bark, which is the actual ingredient for paper, is underneath the black bark. The white bark is separated from the black bark after softening the dried bark with water.

Step 10 - Stacking:
The formed wet sheet of paper is removed from the mold and screen and placed on the stack of sheets.