Last updated on: March 1st, 2025
At PIGMENT TOKYO, we host two special workshops each year: "Painting Irises with Natural Mineral Pigments" and "Creating Original Crayons," and we are excited to hold them this spring!
In the "Painting Irises with Natural Mineral Pigments" workshop, participants will have the opportunity to experience traditional techniques and explore the artistry that has been passed down through generations.
On the other hand, in the "Creating Original Crayons" workshop, families can enjoy learning how to make these familiar art materials and learn their characteristics while appreciating the rich spectrum of colors.
Workshop Overview
[Golden Week] Japanese Painting -Drawing Seasonal Flowers
Date: April 26 (Sat) & May 6 (Tue), 2025
Time: 13:00 – 16:30
Venue: PIGMENT TOKYO
Fee: JPY 11,000 per participant (including tax and materials)
Age recommendation: Age 5 and up
Reservation opening date: Reservation page will be available from March 1 (Sat), 2025 at 12:00 (JST)
Reservations:
April 26 (Sat) : [Golden Week] Japanese Painting -Drawing Seasonal Flowers- April 26.2025
May 6 (Tue) : [Golden Week] Japanese Painting -Drawing Seasonal Flowers- May 6.2025
Note:
*Please refer to the reservation page for more information.
*Things to bring: None
*Age recommendation: Although we welcome any age group, we suggest our participants be at least 5 years or older.
*During the workshop, we will be using animal-based adhesives, specifically Nikawa (animal glue). However, as an alternative, we also offer Gum Arabic (tree sap). Please feel free to inform our instructors if you wish to use the Gum Arabic.
This workshop takes place only during the blooming season of Kakitsubata, or Japanese Irises. The season runs from May to June and Japanese Iris has been celebrated as the flower of early summer in Japan since ancient times.
In this workshop, participants will learn both theoretical and practical skills, such as how to knead and adjust paint density, as well as how to apply colors in the Rinpa style, which is one of the major historical schools of Japanese painting.
The workshop is open to everyone, regardless of age and experience. It is suitable for young children and beginners new to art or art materials, along with artists who wish to delve deeper into the history of Japanese art.
◾️ Painting / Lecture
During the workshop, participants will paint Japanese Irises using "Gunjo" and "Rokusho," colors made from natural mineral pigments similar to those used by Ogata Kōrin.
Natural mineral pigments are made by grinding natural ores into a fine powder: Gunjo is derived from azurite while Rokusho comes from malachite.
These mineral pigments are categorized into 10 different grain sizes with the color tone varying according to the coarseness. Larger grain sizes appear darker, whereas smaller grain sizes yield lighter colors.
Through traditional painting materials and techniques, participants will experience the world of ancient painters and discover what kind of colors can be created from nature.
Furthermore, the Nezu Museum in Omotesando will be exhibiting the National Treasure, the Irises Screen, at this time of year, while the visitors can enjoy the irises in full bloom in the garden.
Surrounded by the real Iris flowers around the museum is a unique way to appreciate the artwork, which is only possible during this specific season.
Special Exhibition “The Kōrin, Ōkyo, and Kiitsu Trio”
Date: April 12 (Sat) – May 11 (Sun), 2025
Venue: Nezu Museum (Tokyo)
*For more information, please visit the Nezu Museum website.
Another very popular workshop that has also become an annual special is our Creating Original Crayons
Workshop.
Next, here are some pictures of how we made crayons during the workshop. Hope they could inspire you and your children's creativity while expanding your imagination as you design your own original crayons.
[Golden Week / Family Event] Creating Original Crayons
Date: April 29 (Tue) & May 5 (Mon), 2025
Time: 14:00 – 15:30
Venue: PIGMENT TOKYO
Fee: JPY 9,900 per pair of an adult & a child (including tax and materials)
Age recommendation: Age 5 and up
Reservation opening date: Reservation page will be available from March 1 (Sat), 2025 at 12:00 (JST)
Reservations:
April 29 (Tue): [Golden Week/ Family Event] Creating Original Crayons April 29.2025
May 5 (Mon): [Golden Week/ Family Event] Creating Original Crayons May 5.2025
Note:
*Please refer to the reservation page for more information.
*Please note that children under elementary school age need to be assisted by a parent or guardian because of the fine work involved, such as using a measuring spoon.
*Preschool-aged children may also attend, but please be aware of the precautions mentioned above regarding the activities.
*While aprons and rubber gloves will be provided, we kindly recommend wearing clothing that you do not mind getting dirty.
(Aprons: One size fits most adults, but can be adjusted in length to fit children as well.)
*Although this workshop will be delivered in Japanese, English course materials are available.
If this sounds like working for you, you are welcome to join our workshops.
◾️ Demonstration: 20 minutes (14:00–14:20)
The instructor will provide a step-by-step demonstration of the process and explain the materials used in order. You may see some materials for the first time, such as pigments (color powders) and beeswax.
Although there are many steps involved, take your time to observe carefully in preparation for your own experience later on. Once the demonstration is done, it will be time for everyone to begin their own crayon-making.
There are three types of pigments.
You will also have the opportunity to create unique colors through the mixing of these materials, allowing you to experience the fascinating aspects of color theory.
◾️ Crayon Making Experience: 70 minutes (14:20–15:30)
Firstly, add the pigments, wax and oil in the correct proportions, then mix the mixture while gently warming it.
Once the ingredients are melted and well mixed, pour the mixture into a mold and let it cool down.
When pushing it out, it comes out in the shape of a crayon we are familiar with.
Let's do a test drawing.
The color appeared nicely on the paper.
At last, you can put it in a special box to bring it back home with you.
Handmade art materials can be very memorable.
It would also be a great time to make a drawing with your family after going home.
PIGMENT TOKYO holds workshops not only during the Golden Week holidays but also regularly to encourage many people to learn about art materials and experience the joy of using them.
Our "Creating Original Paints" workshop teaches how to make watercolors that deepen our understanding of pigments and handmade paints.
In the "Introduction to Mineral Pigments" workshop, participants can learn how to use natural mineral pigments and animal glue to paint peonies. (*Floral motifs and pigment colors may vary depending on the season.)
For experiencing traditional gilding techniques, the “Introduction to Metal Lead” workshop is the most recommended and you can create an image of a starry night using metal leaves.
All of the above workshops are designed at an introductory level, so feel free to join us as your first step if you are interested in art materials or Japanese art.
More workshops and special events will also be coming up too.
Perhaps by experiencing through all your senses, you would add new colors to everyday life.
[Regularly Scheduled] PIGMENT TOKYO WORKSHOPS
Introductory Workshops
Schedule:
・Make Your Own Watercolors (twice a month on Sundays)
・Introduction to Mineral Pigments (once a month on Sundays)
・Introduction to Metal Leaf (once a month on Sundays)
Reservation: https://pigment.tokyo/en/collections/workshop
*The number of times and days of the week listed above may vary depending on the situation. Please check the reservation page of each workshop for further details.
We also offer private workshops for those who would like to take a workshop on a day other than the regular schedules. If you are interested, please check the following.
Translated by Atsumi Okano, Nelson Hor Ee Herng
PIGMENT TOKYO Art Materials Experts