In the wake of a devastating earthquake, an ancient Japanese craft faces both peril and opportunity. Suzanne Ross, originally from England but now residing on Japan’s Noto Peninsula, has spent decades refining her expertise in Wajima-nuri, a traditional lacquerware technique. Despite societal norms suggesting this art form was exclusively for men, she persevered through countless iterations of applying tree sap-based lacquer to wooden objects, layer by intricate layer. However, last year's seismic event shattered not only the ground beneath her studio but also disrupted centuries-old traditions.

The January 2024 earthquake that struck Ishikawa Prefecture left over 400 lives lost and thousands of structures obliterated, including numerous workshops dedicated to crafting Wajima-nuri. In response, many artisans like Ross relocated to Kanazawa, the prefectural capital known for its robust support systems. Beyond merely providing financial aid—up to ¥500,000 per displaced artisan—the city extended gestures such as waiving exhibition fees in prestigious Tokyo galleries and offering free listings in online catalogs typically reserved for paying members. Furthermore, initiatives promoting cultural tourism have been established, directing proceeds towards aiding Noto’s reconstruction efforts.

Kanazawa's commitment to preserving artistic heritage isn't new; it dates back centuries when local rulers repurposed armories into centers for creative expression. Today, under the leadership of individuals like Koichi Ofuji, who leveraged the municipal subsidy to establish a gallery functioning as both a showcase and hub for revitalization activities, there is renewed hope among craftspeople. By fostering environments where dignity remains intact—rejecting charity sales in favor of commissioning fresh works—they underscore resilience and innovation. This narrative exemplifies how communities can harness adversity to strengthen their cultural roots while embracing change positively.