London

Mayu Yoshiyama

Metal sculptor | Gifu, Japan

Hammering to express life’s energy

Mayu's metal sculptures convey vibrant movement and delicate texture
She handmakes her own hammers to create the surface textures of her pieces
She specialises in tankin and plique-à-jour techniques across metal and glass

After training in metalwork at Musashino Art University, Mayu Yoshiyama specialises in traditional Japanese techniques such as tankin (metal hammering) and shippō (enamelling). She begins by shaping flat sheets of metal, using hammers she crafts herself to create unique patterns. She then adds colour by firing glass enamel onto the surface, resulting in works that combine texture, colour and lustre in original ways. Her experience as a designer at a high jewellery brand has further refined her skills in design drawing, 3D CAD and modelling, while also deepening her eye for colours and materials. Now based in both Japan and Taiwan, she continues her creative practice, using her skills and aesthetic sensibility to express a harmony of vibrant movement and delicate texture.

Interview

Why do you think you chose metal sculpture?: Ever since I was little, I have enjoyed expressing myself through movement. I believe this interest has led me to explore the beauty of angles and flowing forms through the act of hammering metal. I always seek to create pieces that are beautiful from every direction.
What was your early experience with crafts?: I grew up in a temple, so traditional Japanese crafts such as ikebana, the tea ceremony and antiques have always been part of my life. Being surrounded by nature and this kind of environment helped me develop a deep respect for tradition.
What is your source of inspiration?: I am fascinated by the shapes, colours and textures of living things such as plants and microorganisms, which make me feel the energy of life. I go into forests and by the sea to take pictures or draw, then I study them quietly afterwards.
What is your favourite part of the process?: Without a doubt, it is the hammering. I enjoy the certainty of working with hard metal, which absorbs my energy and gradually takes shape through the accumulation of each movement. I spend roughly half of the time on each piece hammering the metal.

Mayu Yoshiyama is a rising star: she began her career in 2024