A Different Kind of Luxury: Japanese Lessons in Simple Living and Inner Abundance February 17, 2011

Author and photographer Andy Couturier will discuss his new book profiling people living simple, sustainable, extraordinary lives in rural Japan. A Different Kind of Luxury: Japanese Lessons in Simple Living and Inner Abundance, published by Berkeley-based Stone Bridge Press, lets readers feel the flavor and texture of the lives of a number of fascinating farmers, artists, philosophers and craftspeople who've chosen lives of reduced consumption and increased satisfaction.

Raised in the tumult of Japan's industrial powerhouse, each of the men and women profiled have made the transition to slower, more deeply satisfying lives with plenty of time for contemplation and a deeper connection with the natural world. Although the places they live are beautiful, and many have innovative ways of growing their food and providing for their needs, the talk will also touch on the intentional choices these people have made, and the rich texture of the lives they have created.

Attendees will be able to see a number of the original pieces by these artists, including ceramic works, woodblock prints, hand-bound books, and hand-dyed fabric hangings. The author will also show beautiful slides from of these people's way of life, and there will be a question and answer period at the end. For more information please call (510) 238-3138.