Lacquerware Artist who Once Aspired to be a PainterKiyoshi Torige is famous for his skills in “Chingin lacquerware”. “Chingin” is a technique where pictures are filtered out on lacquered surfaces by gold powder that are rubbed into engraved scars made by special knives called ”Chingin knives”. His works are picturesque, with motion captured in sensitive lines. Many pieces depict dragonflies, rabbits, small birds, flowers and plants. |
Reflecting the tension of the processAfter graduation, Torige continued to brush up his Chingin skills by visiting Living National Treasure, Fumio Mae on a regular basis. Wajima lacquer is said to be a good match with Chingin with its thick coating. Although we only have 1 word for lacquerware, there are actually various types according to the region. He studied each of their features, and also assisted in restoring Okinawa lacquerware making tools. All these experiences are reflected in his works. |
It shouldn’t be valued just because it’s lacquerwareWe all have preconceptions of words like “lacquerware” and “traditional craft”. However, Torige said “I don’t want people to think this must be good because it’s traditional.” ”I want to compete in the world I live in now.” That is how he explained his challenge. |
ACCESS
- Artist, Kiyoshi Torige
- Koto-ku Tokyo