Shosa - Meditations in Japanese Handwork

**This is a pre-order item. Shipping starts on 3 April 2025**

The Japanese concept of ‘Shosa’ is difficult to translate: it refers to the beauty that lies in the repetition of actions and movements, and to the pursuit of perfection and efficiency in their execution. You discover it in the rituals of a Japanese tea ceremony, but also in the repetitive motions of cleaning (as in the film Perfect Days) or in the skillful actions of artisans.

In this book, journalist Ringo Gomez-Jorge and photographer Rob Walbers portray 12 Japanese makers from different regions. From a bamboo weaver to a tatami mat maker, from a ceramist to a Zen monk. Ringo and Rob visited these makers in their workshops and made in-depth portraits in words and pictures. In this book, they report on their journey through Japan, hoping to uncover the complex meaning of shosa through the hands of Japanese makers.

About the creators

Freelance journalist Ringo Gomez-Jorge lives in Belgium and writes for quality Flemish newspapers such as De Standaard and De Morgen. He has a soft spot for Japan, where he tries to spend as much time as possible. Rob Walbers works as a freelance photographer out of Tokyo. His work ranges from music photography to fashion and lifestyle. Besides his commercial assignments, he works on personal projects that have won him several awards.

This book comes with a beautiful ‘Shosa’ printed tote bag made of sturdy cotton, with a unique design by graphic designer Inge Rylant. Buy the book and bag together for 47.5 euros, or the bag separately for 15 euros. Orders over 100 euro (including Shosa) will receive the bag for free.