Backstory
Tobimatsu Toki | Studio Visit
As we eagerly anticipate the opening of Casting Light, the inaugural North American solo exhibition of Tobimatsu Toki at our gallery, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey that has brought us to this moment. Our encounter with founder Hirotaka Tobimatsu approximately a decade…
Dani Sujin Studio | Celebrating Friendship and Craftsmanship
In the realm of art and craftsmanship, there are rare moments where friendship, passion, and creativity intertwine to create something truly special. Our collaboration with ceramic artist Dani Sujin Lee is one such moment—a heartfelt celebration of talent, friendship and the…
Crafts, and Then – A Ryuji Mitani Book
For quite some time, handcrafting has existed as a form of self-expression. Utsuwa, however, was never an art form that could exist on its own, as a vessel cannot fulfill its role without both someone to cook and another to eat. Its final form emerges through connection, not just a one-way interaction.I’ve taken this text as an opportunity to reflect on and reconsider these vessels that exist…
The Path of Makoto Koizumi
Industrial designer Makoto Koizumi and his works are well known in the world; however, when Steve from Nalata Nalata told me that his personality and the path he has taken are not familiar, I agreed. As a consumer rather than an insider…
Interview with Makoto Koizumi | Tonton Rocking Chair
It was early February when I received an email from Steve at Nalata Nalata. The email was about the following; about 3.5 years ago, Steve and his wife Angy were chatting with Koizumi-san over coffee in NYC…
To Reclaim Glass, to Revive our Future | Factory Zoomer
A lively, outgoing and naturally energetic woman who laughs cheerfully. A tender-hearted dog lover. A mentor who listens to my pointless talking carefully and gives me thoughtful advice. Likewise an honest interviewee who answers the…
Michiko Iwata | Studio Visit
We have represented the works of the Iwatas for a while but have waited too long to formally introduce them! Above is Michiko Iwata and Keisuke Iwata – an artist couple who live by the sea…
1981-2021 | Forty Year Timeline of Persona Studio
Stepping into Ryuji Mitani’s studio and home in Matsumoto for the first time was a profound experience for us. After observing an urushi demonstration, we had a chat…
Michiaki Mochizuki | Studio Visit
One of our biggest blessings came in the form of a gift from our friend Noriyasu for our wedding in 2016. He had given us an original framed painting –…
The Man Behind the Woodworker
My conversations with master woodworker Ryuji Mitani across the years of our acquaintance have revealed him to me as a truly extraordinary person. His work holds both great beauty and…