The Appeal of Turning Wood, Embracing the Essence of the Material

In America, particularly during the mid-century, exceptional artisans produced remarkable works in this field.
Figures like James Prestini, Bob Stocksdale, David Ellsworth, and Alexander Noll continuously created forms that defined that era.

In Japan, this practice is known as "hikimono," but the term seems to imply only a technique, making it difficult to appreciate its value as a craft.

I believe that in Japan, there's a tendency to value processes that involve more manual labor.
For instance, carving by hand rather than by machine, or applying lacquer, or polishing. While those methods certainly have their own merits, here I want to introduce the fascination of turning wood, which prioritizes the inherent qualities of the material itself.

The wooden vessels crafted by Shoji Morinaga at Crate are prime examples of the turning wood tradition.
His creations are both modern and deeply rooted in bringing out the natural beauty of the wood, pursuing forms that arise from his own hands and body.

He carefully considers the wood's characteristics, whether it's exceptionally thin or robustly substantial, and applies his touch accordingly. The subtlety of this touch is where the true challenge lies.

Born from a dialogue with the wood, these vessels serve not just as functional objects in our daily lives, but as pieces that enrich our spirits. It is gratifying to see someone dedicated to creating such objects.

Shoji MORINAGA
Born in 1976. Studied industrial design and sculpture at the Japan Institute of Vocational Training, followed by two years of experience as a carpenter. He then spent about seven years crafting furniture at "FACTORY1202" in Kagoshima.
In 2007, he established his studio and shop, "Crate," in Hioki City, Kagoshima Prefecture.
http://www.crate-furniture.net