A new finish for a mindful shift
- Takuya began urushi refining under his uncle's guidance in the family business
- He is using lacquer as a new way of coating surf and skateboards
- Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi Store is a workshop invested in preservation projects of urushi
Takuya Tsutsumi is a fourth-generation urushi refiner, and since 2004 has been dedicated to preserving and evolving the tradition of harvesting the sap of the sumac tree. Concerned about the decline of urushi, Takuya explored new applications beyond traditional Japanese crafts to increase the use of lacquer. He turned to skateboards and surfboards with sleek wooden bodies and glossy finishes conferred by lacquer finishing. Translucent urushi enhances the wood’s grain, creating rich textures and shimmering hues while adding durability, water resistance, and an evolving patina. Takuya integrates local materials, sustainable forestry, and respect for natural cycles in his work, reconnecting people with nature and challenging today's mass-consumption culture.
Interview
- What are the biggest challenges in your craft?
- The number of artisans collecting lacquer sap is decreasing. A shortage of successors and an ageing workforce in every stage of lacquer production and work threaten the craft’s continuation, making it harder to preserve traditional techniques.
- How do you source materials for your work?
- I use local wood, including bark stripped by bears. I also collaborate with forestry workers and woodworkers involved in reforestation initiatives, ensuring sustainable sourcing and supporting the natural ecosystem.
- Which creative projects marked you?
- I was involved in a film production where I met professional surfer Kenta Ishikawa and Australian wood board maker Tom Wegener.
- What message do you hope to convey in the film?
- Although humans have damaged nature, we once lived in gratitude for its gifts. Through handmade crafts from natural materials, I want people to rethink mass consumption and appreciate our deep connection to nature.
Takuya Tsutsumi is a master artisan: he began his career in 2004 and he started teaching in 2018
Works
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Takuya Tsutsumi
