Yukiko Nagai
©Marco Parollo
Yukiko Nagai
©Marco Parollo
Yukiko Nagai
©Marco Parollo
Yukiko Nagai
©Marco Parollo
Yukiko Nagai
©Marco Parollo
Yukiko Nagai
©Marco Parollo

Yukiko Nagai

Mosaic maker

Ravenna, Italy

Mosaics, materiality and modernity

  • Yukiko trained in traditional mosaic techniques in Ravenna
  • Her practice explores how mosaic can suggest different textures and surfaces
  • She combines a controlled Japanese sensibility with the playfulness of European design

Yukiko Nagai is a mosaic artist whose practice combines traditional techniques with a fresh, personal approach. While studying architecture and landscape design, she realised the majesty of mosaic art when she saw the powerful decoration of a mosque in Istanbul. Yukiko later studied mosaic at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ravenna, Italy. Since 2012, she has been working professionally with stone, glass and ceramics to create rich expressions in interior design. Her pieces include classic armchairs and benches along with pieces that play with the idea of materiality. “The challenge is to work with a limited colour palette that cannot be controlled like paint,” she says. Drawn to the character of each material, Yukiko explores unique expression in mosaic, creating plump, cushion like pieces and wood-like marble benches that draw and trick the eye.

Yukiko Nagai is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2012.

INTERVIEW

My practice explores how mosaic can suggest other surfaces. Using traditional materials, I create patterns inspired by textiles and the appearance of wood grain, playing with the contrast between hard mosaic materials and the different textures they can evoke.

I begin with antique furniture, allowing it to guide the structure, colours and materials. Using a traditional Ravenna technique, I draw a design on canvas and apply the mosaic before placing it on the furniture. I enjoy seeing the image slowly appear as I work.

A major turning point was when I took the first two armchairs I had made to a gallery in Milan and they recognised my work. This gave me confidence in what I do, and became the starting point for creating new pieces to present at major design fairs such as Milan Design Week.

To create a piece with real presence, I usually spend around one and a half to two months on each one. Each hand brings a different touch, which can change the taste and rhythm of the final piece. For this reason, I apply the mosaic pieces myself to maintain my own identity in each item.