AGENT FOR CHANGE WORKSHOP: The Social Tool of Japanese Wabi Sabi

The Social Tool of Japanese Wabi Sabi: A Cross-Cultural Practice through Mobile Photographs
led by Claire Cuccio
July 10 – 24, 2025 | Thursday 6-8pm
In Person
Free
Details / Register

This in-person workshop explores the Japanese concept of wabi sabi — “beauty in imperfection” — as a social tool to challenge “imperfections” and prioritize repair in our relationships and communities. Students will take a visual journey through wabi sabi’s cultural origins in 16th century Japan, learn how wabi sabi expanded globally, and explore wabi sabi in the Pacific Northwest. Through the students’ photographs interpreting wabi sabi, the group will learn how their work encourages improved human relation. Students come away with a curated body of work that has defined social meaning and purpose. They leave with an understanding of wabi sabi’s reframing of social connections that can bring hope and new tolerance for diversity.

Image Credit: Claire Cuccio