Japanese Tsugaru kite making master Yoshizo Sakuraba visited TNUA in September, bringing along several of his works of art as gifts, including one two meters long with the words “Blessings for the 30th Anniversary” written on it to mark the university’s 30th anniversary.
Greeting the Japanese master from Aomori Prefecture and receiving the gifts on behalf of the university, TNUA President Prof. Ju, Tzong-Ching noted that most people associate kites with recreation and entertainment.
But Mr. Sakuraba’s passion for traditional art and his mastery of it would let one realize the historical backgrounds and deep meanings of traditional kites.
Through learning to make kites, students have acquired invaluable knowledge and skills from the master, Prof. Ju stressed, thanking Mr. Sakuraba for taking part in a workshop for traditional kite-making.
Mr. Sakuraba explained the meaning behind the process of making Tsugaru kites. He noted that the making Tsugaru kites employs unique methods and materials, which allow them to fly smoothly.
In general, the front of the kite is painted in Ukiyo-e style. The large kite given to TNUA is made with Japanese paper that is already more than a century old, he said.
He said he was also much impressed by TNUA students hard working attitude and eagerness to learn.
Many of the students made kites for the first time at the workshop, but their artistic training helped them learn fast and well.
The workshop also invited other traditional kite-making masters from Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia. An exhibition of their kites will be held at the Library in October.