What was the first work you exhibited internationally and what was the concept?

It is Kawara series. The concept was to make a very finely tuned sense of balance with Japanese spiritual beauty, such as Japanese Kawara and the rooftop of Phoenix Hall of the Byodo-in Temple in Kyoto.

Kawara, 2008

Can you tell me about one of your favorite works?

It is ‘Piece of Peace’. After 9/11 , I sent a sympathy card to one of my customers in New York. The customer replied me saying, “Because of this event I was able to feel your love. Thank God.” It taught me that it does not end because of destruction, but it starts life because of the destruction. I worked to make that idea into a shape.

Piece of Peace, 2008

Please tell me about your new work ‘Fusion’, which will be exhibited at this year’s Milano Salone?

Well, there are many conflicts between different religions and races in the world. It is my wish that those conflicts would melt into one and everything on earth could come together. I am expressing this idea with colors and shapes.

Fusion, 2008

What do you think about the interior industry in Japan?

It is no doubt that Japanese traditional craftsmanship is some of the first leading in the world. And, people can get a sense of this if they study the history. The Japan brand is advancing and designers are reviving the traditional craftsmanship. As for me, I am a traditional lacquerware craftsman. However, I design high-technology. The times have changed.

USB Memory Stick, 2008

What does the future hold for you?

Well, to mention a few things, I will have an exhibition of new work at Milano Salone, an exhibit of a 6 meter sculpture. I’ll also show the full gold leaf USB stick art for Sendai’s international promotion. There are many exhibitions worldwide, so please see my website for more details.

Anything you’d like to say to our Shift readers?

I have been taught the meaning of beauty through pleasure and many different experiences. I will make and exhibit art super aggressively around the theme of provoking world from Sendai. If you are interested in my work, please contact me. I look forward seeing you sometime.

International
Address: 26-13 Tachimachi, Aoba-ku, Sendai
Tel: +81 (0)22 223 3267
info@love-international.jp
https://www.love-international.jp