Kakitsubata's "Buds": Part 1
Part 1: Gelman's Masterpieces - Yamanaka Lacquerware and Kutani Ware
This is a new series, [Kakitsubata's 'Perspective'], from Kakitsubata, an interior design shop in Nakameguro, Tokyo.
This installment introduces 'Gelman's Masterpieces: Yamanaka Lacquerware and Kutani Ware,' currently on display at Kakitsubata's annex.
What is this exquisite collaboration between world-renowned artist Alexander Gelman and Japan's traditional crafts?
By Yukiko Shirokizu (Kakitsubata)
Alexander Gelman is a globally acclaimed artist known for his diverse creative endeavors. In recent years, he has turned his attention to Japanese craftsmanship and traditional arts, serving as Creative Director for 'KIE' (Kateigaho International) and showing a keen interest in the pursuit of perfection in Japanese artisanal techniques.
The genesis of this project began when Gelman visited Ishikawa Prefecture. There, he encountered Yamanaka lacquerware artisans. Drawn to each other's uncompromising creative spirit, a collaborative creation was born.
The theme is a 'chess set,' often considered a symbol of intellect. Furthermore, two master painters from Kutani Ware, another traditional craft, joined the project, resulting in a chess set as beautiful as jewels.
Gelman refers to the Yamanaka lacquerware artisans as 'comrades,' while the artisans themselves remarked, 'When we realized his designs perfectly suited the techniques of Yamanaka lacquerware, we were truly impressed.' The creation process is rich with diverse stories, and the borderless, uncompromising creativity shines through.
The aesthetic beauty and tactile comfort of Japanese 'beauty for use' – lacquerware – have been elevated to the 'beauty for use' of 'chess,' enjoyed by people worldwide. This can be seen as a true 'bridge between past and future' (Gelman).
Gelman’s Masterpieces
Yamanaka Lacquerware and Kutani Ware
Dates: January 14 (Wed) - February 1 (Sun), 2009
Venue: Kakitsubata Annex
2-16-7 Aobadai, Meguro-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays
Tel. 03-3770-3401
www.kakitsubataweb.jp
Chess pieces using Kutani Ware's 'Kuro-tsubu' (black grain) technique
A testament to meticulous handiwork, where precision in the size, color, and spacing of each grain is paramount.
Black and vermilion lacquer chess set
The pieces are made from Mizume wood, known for its fine grain, making it ideal for turning on a lathe.
"We struggled to achieve beautiful straight lines with lacquer without altering the design," (Yamanaka Lacquerware Artisan)
Black lacquer and gold leaf board
The flat, smooth board features four coats of lacquer.
"We prioritized the finish, even if it meant using a more labor-intensive technique," (Yamanaka Lacquerware Artisan)
Gold leaf and wiped lacquer chess pieces
For the wiped lacquer pieces, Keyaki wood is used to beautifully showcase the grain.
"It feels like a new image for lacquerware has been born," (Yamanaka Lacquerware Artisan)
Black and vermilion lacquer chess set
Yamanaka lacquerware is renowned for its lathe-turned products.
"It was wonderful to showcase the high level of Yamanaka's lathe turning techniques," (Yamanaka Lacquerware Artisan)
Gold leaf and wiped lacquer chess pieces
The design of the pieces is by Gelman. Achieving sharp edges presented a technical challenge.
Sample pieces
The sample creation process for this uncompromising collaboration involved multiple iterations.
Sample pieces
(From left) Kutani Ware, Kutani Ware base by Kida Tatsu, gold leaf
Piece placed on a T-shirt
The T-shirt also features a design derived from Gelman's drawings for the chess set and pieces.
Overglaze enamel by Kutani Ware artist Takesan Fukushima, using the 'Aka-e Saibyo' (red fine drawing) technique
The intricate geometric patterns are captivating. The skill involved, all done by hand, is truly astonishing.
Vermilion and black lacquer chess set
"The greatest characteristic of lacquer is its tactile quality," (Yamanaka Lacquerware Artisan), making you want to reach out and touch them.
Kutani Ware 'Mori-kin' (gold inlay) technique: 'Shiro-tsubu' (white grain)
'Shiro-tsubu' by Kinyoku Nakata. As the name suggests, it is depicted grain by grain.
Kutani Ware 'Mori-kin' (gold inlay) technique: 'Shiro-tsubu' (white grain)
Truly 'tactile.' This brings to mind the keyword of this exhibition.
Credits inscribed on the back of the pieces
The inscription 'STUDIO GLMN.' The credits vary depending on the type of piece.
Credits inscribed on the back of the pieces
Written in brushstrokes: 'Gelman, Kinyoku'
Credits inscribed on the back of the pieces
Credits for Kutani Ware master overglaze artist Takesan Fukushima and Gelman.
Lacquer-coated bicycle
An exceptionally luxurious bicycle, specially exhibited on this occasion.
Lacquer-coated bicycle
The components are sourced from top global brands, ensuring impeccable functionality.
Sample pieces
"Sharp, simple, and cool," (Yamanaka Lacquerware Artisan). Its dignified presence is captivating.