"Predictive Dream XIII" (2010) by Katsuyo Aoki MAREO SUEMASA

Traditional Japanese crafts are often considered as old-fashioned, especially when compared with the nation's increasingly popular art forms of animation, manga and design. The 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, aims to shake up the public's perception of crafts with an exhibition presenting artisans who take unconventional and modern approaches to their work.

These artists don't emulate Western aesthetics, as some Japanese craftsmen have tried in the past, instead they explore new potential uses and forms of the country's industrial arts. The 12 artists' works, which include ceramics and lacquer ware, show that crafts can be closer to modern arts than you would think; till Aug 31.

Other arts this week
In celebration of the spirited culture of northern Japan By YOKO HARUHARA	Signed, sealed and delivered: Paul Smith's stamp collection By DANIELLE DEMETRIOU	Takeshi Kitano takes on a different beat By MIO YAMADA
"The Beauty of Kana" By TOMOHIRO OSAKI	"EXHIBITION: Tohoku Heartbeat" By TOMOHIRO OSAKI	"Ishii Toshiro Exhibition: Porcelain Painting For DESIGN SHOWER" By TOMOHIRO OSAKI