Toru Tsuji

Wire sculptor

©Kanaami-Tsuji

The elegant geometry of woven metal

Toru practises wire-netting techniques which make kitchen utensils decorative and functional
Kyoto wire netting utensils are essential to local cuisine
Through his commitment, he is upholding this craft's history, which is already over a century

Toru Tsuji is the second generation artisan and president of Kanaamitsuji, a 'Kyo-kanaami' ware studio in Kyoto specialising in kitchen utensils rooted in local culinary traditions. Kyo-kanaami ware includes items made with the technique of Kyoto wire netting, a form of wire weaving. Among the iconic, minimalist, and woven utensils are tofu servers and tea strainers made of brass, copper, and other metals. Toru's objects are cherished by chefs. To cater to the modern lifestyle, Toru also crafts other every day items such as coffee utensils and lampshades, as well as wearable accessories. He is always evolving the utility of the traditional craft with the times. Toru's global perspective is rooted in his travels, and he wishes to connect diverse lifestyles around the world through Kyo-kanaami and bring more awareness to the craft and to the community of artisans for the future generation.

Interview

©Kanaami-Tsuji

©Kanaami-Tsuji

What is the relationship between your craft and your local community?: Until now, the image of craftspeople has been male dominant, but for example my mother was a craftswoman who taught me the importance of making with your hands. To bring awareness to the diversity in this field, at Kanaami-Tsuji we actively hire female apprentices.
Do you have any unique techniques?: I have a pattern that my father and I came up with called Oyako ami (father and son weaving), as well as kiku-dashi (chrysanthemum pattern) and kikko-ami (tortoise shell netting). We continuously seek to incorporate new metal weaving techniques.
What do you cherish most about your craft?: Designing, crafting and selling our own products, and meeting wonderful friends from all over the world through the common thread of craftsmanship.
What are your favourite materials to work with?: We hand weave copper and brass wires – metals that have historical use in Japan for their natural antibacterial properties. We also use stainless steel and silver. We have also developed an original technique of processing machine-woven metal nets in combination with craftsmanship.

Toru Tsuji is a master artisan: he began his career in 2002 and he started teaching in 2005