Mastering the rain flow
- Yoichi makes watering cans that are designed to age gracefully over time
- In 2006, he crafted a special order for the Emperor of Japan
- Artisans are trained domestically and overseas to repair Negishi cans for long-term use
Yoichi Negishi is the craftsman at the helm of the family workshop founded in 1944 by Kuranobu Negishi in Tokyo's Sumida ward. Negishi Industry Co. began with producing metal gardening tools. By 1966, under Osamu Negishi, the company specialised in manufacturing joro, or bonsai watering cans, made from copper, brass, and stainless steel, renowned for their rain-like water flow. Yoichi's workshop is now Japan's only maker of bonsai watering cans. This multi-award-winning, family-run business consists of three master metalsmiths who handcraft each piece using traditional techniques, taking nearly half a day to create each can through meticulous high-temperature soldering. Yoichi's products are highly valued in the bonsai community for their quality, that reflects a deep connection to nature and Japanese heritage.
Interview
- What sets your work apart from other craft artisans?
- The distinguishing features of my work are custom-made, repairable watering cans that provide a gentle, rain-like water flow just by tilting the watering can. It is my greatest wish to provide watering cans that can be used daily for over 40 years.
- What has been your journey to taking over the family workshop?
- I studied IT and worked as a system engineer for 14 years. I can now apply this knowledge to running the family workshop. We use social media feedback to create new designs, and showcase our work annually at the National Traditional Crafts Exhibition in Roppongi.
- What are your thoughts on the craft of making watering cans?
- I was honoured to be recognised by the imperial family for our watering cans. Most recently, the Reiwa Emperor used our can at a tree planting on December 27, 2023. My family's workshop was founded in 1944, and I aim to achieve recognition as a traditional Japanese craft by 2044.
- Based on your unique background, how do you see the future of your craft?
- Considering the future, I plan to utilise my knowledge as a system engineer to create 3D printer files for existing watering cans. Since there is no standardised format, I am developing a format and addressing copyright and related rights.
Yoichi Negishi is a master artisan: he began his career in 1981 and he started teaching in 2000
Where
Yoichi Negishi
