“What are the conditions for artists to be able to keep selling their work?” We asked this question to an art galllery representative at a department store. “Let me see. I suppose one thing is to keep changing.” It is difficult to survive for a long period in the world of art, and without a … Continue reading Conditions for artists to be able to keep selling their work
The tools used in lacquer art are both beautiful and unique. Currently, the tools for creating lacquer productions, and the production of lacquer materials is in a critical state. There are no, or very few, successors, and there is the issue of aging among current proponents. I would like to introduce you to the charm … Continue reading Tools to link to① Lacquer brush
Many people have an image of lacquerware as being difficult to handle. Certainly, its surface may appear weak compared to that of earthenware, porcelain, or glass. However, many people who make it feel “it is more durable than I thought”. If you use it correctly, it will last for multiple generations. I shall explain things … Continue reading Three things you must never do when handling lacquerware
This was exhibited in the 59th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition. The “Road of Light” product has become a breakout product for me. Fortunately, it received the new face award at the Japan Crafts Exhibition. It is also a product that has led me to the discovery of my own style. Light released from a single … Continue reading About the product – Makie Tortoiseshell Mother-of-Pearl Jewelry Box “Road of Light”
I was born into the home of an ordinary business person. My grandfather was a farmer, and my father worked for NTT. I am often asked “Has your family been Makieshi (gold lacquer experts) for generations?”, but my upbringing had no relationship whatsoever with urushi or art. My first encounter with urushi was at high … Continue reading Encounter with Urushi
“Do you know how urushi is collected?” For those who don’t know much about urushi I will start explaining what it is. Urushi is sap that is harvested from urushi (or lacquer) trees. The works of art that are made using this sap are called lacquer ware. The collecting method of the sap is called … Continue reading Cultivation and Collection of Urushi
Lacquer artist – Yasuhiro Asai I was born on the 9th of July in 1983. During my early childhood I spent many days in school refusal as getting used to school was difficult. Eventually I enrolled in Okayama’s boarding school (Kibikōgengakuen Senior High School). There I had my first encounter with maki-e and in order … Continue reading Lacquer artist – Yasuhiro Asai