In 2017, Kuniji Tsubaki designed a portable teahouse that condenses into the size of a suitcase. His ZEN-An was constructed using authentic Japanese techniques by master carpenters (sashimonoshi), tatami craftsmen, blinds (sudare) makers, and washi paper mounters. His goal was to develop a tearoom that could be assembled within the time it takes to burn one stick of incense (approximately 15 minutes).
From Friday, March 31 - Sunday, April 2, ZEN-An was presented in locations around the Houston area. Visitors to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH), the Japanese Garden in Hermann Park, MECA, Levy Park, and Burnett Bayland Park were able to experience this specially crafted environment through an introduction to the rituals of Japanese tea ceremonies as influenced by the long history of Buddhist religion.
The program was presented in conjunction with None Whatsoever: Zen Painting from the Gitter-Yelen Collection on view from February 18 – May 13, 2023 at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
ZEN-An was co-presented by JASH and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH) and funded in part by The Japan Foundation.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Kuniji Tsubaki is a Japanese architect who specialises in tea rooms. He has found an ingenious way to take this spirit of hinraku around the world. His chashitsu fits in a suitcase and can be re-assembled in any location where he spreads a message of peace. Kuniji-san’s portable tea room is constructed by his team of master artisans.
FUNDER
The presentation of ZEN-An in Houston was funded in part by The Japan Foundation.
Photos by night.sky.creative