discover the personal story behind each artisT
Every artisan comes with a story that can teach us the many lessons of life and art - take a peek into their secretive world.
Hiroshi Nakamura
Architect
Award-winning architect Hiroshi Nakamura’s unique architecture is based on the history, culture, industry, and materials of the region.
Aimi Sekiguchi
VR/NFT Artist
Japan’s pioneer VR/NFT Artist, Sekiguchi is best known for her live paintings and spatial art in the VR/NFT space.
Yoshiro Kobayashi
Edo Kiriko (glass carving) Artisan
Award-winning third-generation Edo Kiriko glass-cutting artisan, Kobayashi is part of the oldest family legacy of Kiriko artisans. He continues to protect the history and heritage of one of Japan’s most delicate art forms.
Yoshindo Yoshihara
Katana Swordsmith
The world’s most prominent Katana swordsmith, Yoshihara is holder of the highest-achievable mukansa ranking.
Chikara Mizukami
Wagashi Artisan
Mizukami is a world-renowned wagashi, or japanese confectionery, artisan. Chefs such as Sadaharu Aoki and Jean-Charles Rochoux have sought the guidance of this legendary pâtissier.
Yuko Nagayama
Architect
One of Japan’s most cutting-edge and prominent female architects, Nagayama’s works define the modern era of Japanese architecture.
Masahiro Maeda
Ceramics Painter
Regarded around the world as an influential and prodigal figure in the world of ceramics, Maeda fuses his expertise in traditional techniques along with modern influences to create works of art that push boundaries.
Kengo Kuma
Architect
Internationally acclaimed architect and designer of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Stadium.
Yoshi Tezuka
Sushi Artisan
Fourth generation master sushi chef and sommelier at his family’s traditional Edomae-style sushi restaurant, which has a history of over 100 years.
Shinobu Namae
Culinary Chef
Chef-owner and mastermind of three-Michelin star restaurant in Tokyo, L’effervescence.
Sachio Yoshioka
Dyer (Organic Dyes)
Fifth generation Japanese traditional someya textile dyer and artisan and a revered authority on colors and dyeing.