Yoshiaki Taguchi
Lacquerer
Ina, Japan
A coated mirror of the natural world
- Drawing from nature, Yoshiaki often uses flora and fauna as motifs
- He took part in crafting the ceremonial throne for the Emperor of Japan in 1998
- Some works can take one to two years to complete
Yoshiaki Taguchi learned maki-e, raden and the restoration of lacquer cultural properties from his father Yoshikuni, who imparted both technical skill and a sense of spirituality. Today, he works with traditional methods, such as kyushitsu dry lacquer, mother-of-pearl inlay, and gold and silver maki-e. Yoshiaki has developed a singular aesthetic that makes the most of each object's surface, depicting plants, small animals and the universe in all its diversity. "I am inspired by the immense creative power of nature," Yoshiaki says. "I am deeply grateful for its endless riches, which drives me to pursue my craft with boldness and dedication." In 2008, he was awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon by the Emperor of Japan.
Discover his work
INTERVIEW
Growing up surrounded by my father's maki-e works, I was naturally drawn to lacquer. After high school, I trained under my father and kyushitsu master Masumura Masuki. My career was launched when I took part of the 32nd Japan Traditional Kogei Exhibition, where my work Maki-e Namimon Mizusashi was selected.
Lacquer acts as an adhesive and as a coating. I apply materials such as gold, silver, shell and eggshell using lacquer, finishing the surface to highlight the material's unique texture. I find it appealing that the distinctive qualities of each material can be brought out to their fullest in the deep black of lacquer.
I am an active member of the Japan Kogei Association, the Japan Lacquer Crafts Association, the Japan Handcraft Artists Federation and the Saitama Women's Craft Artists Association. I contribute as both an exhibitor and juror for multiple prestigious exhibitions. Committed to preserving the craft, I make a point of creating works rooted in solid traditional techniques.
I currently provide technical instruction as a lecturer at the Kagawa Prefectural Lacquer Art Research Institute, the Wajima Prefectural Lacquer Art Technical Training Center, and the Okinawa Prefectural University of Arts. I hope that each young person, drawing on their own individual sensibility, will become one of the driving forces that open up a new era.
