Gualala Arts Lecture Series presents:
Of Gates and Guilds:
Architecture and Apprenticeship in Japan

with Michael Anderson

Monday, July 31, 7:30 p.m.
$5 donation requested

Although traditional Japanese architecture is among the world's most recognized building traditions, Michael Anderson believes it is among the most misunderstood.

Anderson, who draws on twenty years of experience designing Japanese and contemporary residence and meditation spaces, will explain his ideas in a lecture entitled, "Of Gates and Guilds: Architecture and Apprenticeship in Japan" at 7:30 on July 31. The Torii Gate will be constructed for the opening of the Giri exhibit. The reception for this exhibit is July 8, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

At the entrance to the Gualala Arts Center's Giri exhibit Anderson will build a traditional torii gate, which will illustrate the first part of his lecture when Anderson will discuss the unique way to understand the construction and spiritual dimensions of Japanese space, by looking at its most elemental expression: the open or "gateless" gate.

The second part of the lecture will explore the nature of Japanese apprenticeship and the ancient guild traditions that create extensively trained master craftsmen who made complex structures appeared deceptively simple and effortless.

Anderson will compare Japanese and Western attitudes towards issues such as originality, lineage, innovation, creativity, education, and the master-disciple relationship. He intends the lecture not only to educate the listener, but also to demonstrate the transmissions that lie at the heart of the creative process.

A frequent contributor to books and magazines, Anderson has lectured worldwide on this subject. His personal journey began as a designer and craftsman in rural Pennsylvania working with Amish timber framers. He did historic restoration at Hancock Shaker Village in Massachusetts.

Then he lived in Japan for twelve years where he apprenticed for master temple carpenter Katsuhiro Okumoto. He is now based in The Sea Ranch and specializes in timber framed architecture and furniture. Visit his website, laughingmoondesign.com for more information and samples of his work.

Located at 46501 Old State Highway in Gualala, the Arts Center is open weekdays 9 am to 4 pm, and weekends from noon to 4 pm. Please call (707) 884-1138 for more information.