Atomic commonality of all things
- Takashi opened his own workshop in 2008
- He is a woodworker, specialised in tableware
- We Are Atoms is his flagship series
Takashi Tomii showcases the possibilities of solid wood through his expert use of hand carving techniques. Originally from Niigata, it was during a stay in Oregon, where forestry is a key industry, that he became interested in woodworking. During his post-graduate degree in surface science, he decided to devote himself fully to woodworking. He trained at Shinrin Takumi Juku, a school for forestry craftsmanship, where he learned to make solid wood furniture for two years before working several years at Oak Village Ltd, where he was involved in product development and production management. With his work, Takashi introduces the inherent warmth of wood to the dining experience, with a hint to his scientific background. The idea behind his We Are Atoms series is that we are all atoms and that we should rather focus on what we have in common than on our individual differences.
Interview
- How did you choose between physics and sculpture?
- I was already interested in wood at a young age, when I was studying in Oregon in the United States. I loved sharpening branches of wood that I collected to make utensils. At some point, I had to make a decision and when I thought about what I could devote more time to, the laboratory or the workshop, I chose the workshop.
- What do you like best in creation?
- The freedom and the fact that I am able to hold pleasant materials every day. I have the privilege of being close to nature at every stage of my work and I feel that the tree is 'happy' when my object is well made. Everything I experience in life is the result of my work.
- In what terms would you define tradition and innovation?
- In my view, tradition, as defined by materials and technical elements, contrasts with innovation, which centres around the creation of entirely novel concepts. For humanity to thrive on Earth, there must be a deep understanding of our inherent connection with nature. However, a challenge arises as many artisans continue to separate nature and humans in their approach. My proposed innovation, therefore, lies in bringing the concept that 'humans are part of nature' into craft work.
- How does your craft link people and nature?
- I try to use locally felled trees when I make my pieces. I also use driftwood that I collect from the nearby beach. The region has a lot of snow in winter, so the changing seasons and the natural environment have a big influence on my work.
Takashi Tomii is a master artisan: he began his career in 2008 and he started teaching in 2010
Works
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Takashi Tomii
