The seminar concluded with a Q&A session. While there were some insightful questions posed, and the Nagasawa team did a great job attempting to respond thoroughly to everybody, this session reinforced a personal frustration I have with the degree to which some fountain pen users get very wrapped up in the technical details of what is a strongly analog, inexact, and artistic product. The focus of the Nagasawa Seminar was the history behind the Kobe Ink Series, its strong ties to Kobe, Japan, and the artistry and creativity necessary to create 150 different inks inspired by specific places around a single city. Yet I was a little dismayed at the extent to which the initial questions focused on things like ink formulation, “ink safety,” color variation in bottles purchased years apart, etc. Even though the questions themselves were genuine and honest, they felt misplaced. The story being told focused on the history of a classic product that’s sincerely rooted in its community with a strong sense of place - something rare in today’s market and certainly a story you wouldn’t hear in another venue. It’s not how I personally would have chosen to pick the brain of the creator of one of the most famous ink lines in the world. Again, I was extremely impressed with how the Nagasawa representatives quite graciously answered all the questions posed, speaking through a translator and in light of the fact that the inks themselves are manufactured by Sailor, who handles things like ink formulation.
Takeaways from One of the Best Pen Shows I Have Attended in Years
The San Francisco Pen Show remains one of the best shows on the circuit in terms of content and variety of exhibitors. If you appreciate Japanese stationery, there is no better show in the United States. I’m not going to do a full discussion of show logistics, crowds, etc., as you can find that elsewhere. There certainly were issues with crowds, navigation, and the fact that the show has likely outgrown its current venue, but I still wouldn’t miss this one for the world. See you all next year!
Many thanks to everyone who made this trip to the San Francisco Pen Show possible, especially Vanness Pens for hosting us at their table! I definitely plan to return next year.
