This week we looked at Imperial Japan. Japan used to be a 'Sakoku' (a locked country) until they opened their boarders in the 19th century to modernise. Which they did at a rapid rate. Even with this, Japan still has its distinct 'Japaneseness' whereas 'Britishness' can change.
Buddist alters and buildings are more decorative to celebrate religion, where as cathedrals like St Paul's was built to be impressive (and oppressive). However in Buddist paintings, message was more important than the image and found that less is more (wabi sabi).
- shibayama - the use of shells in decoration
- wabi-sabi - Perfection without perfection. Knowing when to stop.
- ukiyo-e/ye - woodblock painting. 'Floating world'. Everyday life.
- sirimono - ceremonial prints
- shippo (or cloisonne) - enamels
- pangoda - Buddist building.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pagoda
Kimono colours also hold importance and different messages.
- Black - formality and grace
- Light blue - seas that protect and sustain
- Purple - undying love
- White - fidelity and purity
- Red - alluring and love (transient)
- Blue - repel snakes and flies
Designs on the kimono are also placed there for a reason.
- Crane - good fortune and longevity
- Peony - good fortune
- Long sleeves - single
- Short sleeves - married
In Di's session, we linked what we learned to films we have suggested in relation to Japanese cinema vs. Hollywood cinema on the VLE. I suggested Lost In Translation.
The film directly parodies Japan and their influence on Hollywood, clearly shown in the trailer. Bob (Bill Murray) is an American actor and travels to Tokyo to appear in commercials. The 'binary opposites' (a term coined by Levi Strauss) between the two cultures is clearly shown with the "American in Tokyo" motif. Hollywood is clearly better of with Bob finding love in a hostile environment.
http://www.hollyinspec.com/my-favorite-movie/
No comments:
Post a Comment