The Art of Kintsugi: Finding Beauty in Brokenness
A few years ago, during one of the darkest periods of my life, I found myself struggling with depression. I felt broken, disconnected from who I used to be, unsure if I’d ever feel whole again. Around that time, I discovered the Japanese art of Kintsugi—a method of repairing broken pottery with gold, turning cracks into something beautiful.
What started as a simple DIY project became deeply personal. As I filled each crack with shimmering gold, I saw a reflection of my own healing. Slowly, piece by piece, I began to embrace my imperfections, realizing they weren’t something to hide but a testament to my strength and resilience. Kintsugi taught me that healing isn’t about returning to who you once were—it’s about becoming something new, something stronger and more beautiful in the process.
In this blog, I’ll explore the different types of Kintsugi, highlight notable Kintsugi artists, dive into the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, and share how this ancient art can be applied to everyday life as a powerful reminder that our scars make us who we are.
What is Kintsugi? A Brief History
Kintsugi (金継ぎ), which translates to “golden joinery,” is a centuries-old Japanese art form rooted in the philosophy of embracing flaws and imperfections. Instead of discarding broken pottery, craftsmen repair the cracks with a mixture of lacquer and powdered gold, silver, or platinum, creating something even more valuable than the original.
Kintsugi isn’t just about physical restoration; it symbolizes the idea that scars tell a story. It’s a practice deeply intertwined with the wabi-sabi philosophy, which finds beauty in imperfection and impermanence.
How Kintsugi Reflects Mental Health &
Healing
For me, Kintsugi has been a powerful reminder that healing isn’t about erasing the past but about integrating it into who we are. Here are some ways that the practice mirrors mental health and emotional growth:
- Patience and Presence: The process takes time and focus. Each step is an opportunity to be mindful and present.
- Acceptance of Flaws: Rather than hiding the broken pars, Kintsugi celebrates them – just like we should with our own experiences.
- Resilience and Transformation: Every repaired piece becomes stronger and more beautiful, a metaphor for personal growth after hardship.
How to Start Your Own Kintsugi Project
Interested in trying Kintsugi for yourself? It’s a rewarding experience that combines art, mindfulness, and creativity. Here’s what you’ll need:
Or you can buy a kit! Turn broken pieces into golden art with this
Kintsugi Repair Kit. Perfect for beginners
experienced crafters alike. Click the image above to get yours!
Watch this detailed video on the Kintsugi process, showcasing step-by-step techniques for repairing with gold!
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Beauty of Kintsugi in Everyday Life
Kintsugi isn’t just an ancient Japanese art—it’s a powerful philosophy that teaches us to embrace imperfections and find beauty in brokenness. Practicing Kintsugi has helped me shift my perspective, applying its lessons to daily life by seeing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than failures. Just like mending broken pottery with gold, we can rebuild ourselves with resilience, patience, and creativity.
If you’re ready to start your own Kintsugi repair journey, remember: it’s not about perfection but transformation. Every crack tells a story, and with the right mindset, you can turn flaws into something truly beautiful.
Check out the related posts below for more inspiration on Kintsugi and self-growth!
