Lacquer Artist representing Aomori

A crisp style. The color of lacquer will further complement the form. Red lacquer adds a gorgeous hue while colors like black can enhance the overall impression of the work.
The artist is Masado Fujita. He born in 1958 to Kiyomasa Fujita, a prominent Tsugaru lacquer artist. Masado studied at the Lacquer Art Institute in Kagawa under Masami Isoi, the Human National Treasure. He then returned to Hirosaki and continued creating his work. He is now a lacquer artist who has won numerous awards at exhibitions such as the Japan ”Kogei” Exhibition.

Delicate with transparency

A feature of Fujita’s work, as mentioned earlier, is the crispness. There is also a ”sense of transparency”. That is why there is a sense of silence in his pieces. A technique called ”kinma” makes it all possible. ”Kinma” is a symbolic technique of Kagawa lacquerware which Fujita acquired. Layers of lacquer are applied to the surface, then fine lines are engraved, and inlaid with colored lacquer. Polished until the surface is flat, the result is a delicate expression similar to glass art.

Engraving and coloring

After observing the various processes in the studio, we tried carving a lacquer plate for ourselves. The softness of the plate when the blade is applied depends on how many days it has been since the lacquer has been applied. If the lacquer has just recently been applied, the plate will be soft. If it’s been several years, it will be hard. The texture will also vary. We finally get to experience coloring. Pigments are commonly used to add color to lacquer, but Fujita says he prefers to use dyes. This brings out the transparency in Fujita’s work.
Lacquer work can range from unsophisticated pieces to finely crafted pieces. Fujita’s delicate work with their transparency are a perfect fit for the modern lifestyle and are highly valued.

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