Woodworkers - woodworking experts who carve the bases of lacquerware
Mr. Koji Yosozawa, Yosozawa Wood Crafts
Woodworkers handle the wooden base products that form the base of lacquering. We visited their office and had the opportunity to see a number of their woodwork pieces. They mainly produce wooden joinery (box-shaped) pieces, but also produce a wide range of items such as flower stands and round trays. When we visited the warehouse at the back of the office, it was overflowing with woodwork pieces. They have experience working with brooches, hairpins, and bangles, so we were able to look at a variety of woodwork pieces for reference.
Maki-e Artists: Adding a touch of elegance to the simple and sturdy lacquerware
Mr. Kazuya Shirota
We were introduced to Mr. Shirota, who applies maki-e (gold-lacquered lacquerware) to lacquerware that had already been finished. When we entered his workspace, we saw rows of chopsticks with maki-e applied, and while we listened to him talk, we were able to see the items he had created. Although he was quiet and seemed a bit hesitant, the items he created were full of playful ideas, and the designs were realistic, with even the smallest designs drawn with firm lines. We had heard that lines are the lifeblood of maki-e, and his numerous drawings were unwavering and elegant, and we were convinced that this was indeed the case. The beautiful blue of the mother-of-pearl and the magnificent kingfisher, which seemed to be the crystallization of Mr. Shirota's curiosity, left a deep impression on us.
A British artist who came to Japan because he fell in love with lacquer
Suzanne Ross
Finally, we visited Suzan, who is celebrating her 30th year in Japan. Her small workshop, built at the foot of a mountain, is a charming, country-style home reminiscent of a picture book. She completes every step of the production process herself, even using lace instead of fabric. She has a strong conviction in her work, as evidenced by her strong statement that she "doesn't want to create anything deceptive." Previously, she created maki-e (lacquerware) on gemstones, which were sold in department stores. However, her work eventually shifted to concealing the stones' imperfections. Suzan regretfully explained that, despite her desire to create high-quality products, she was unable to continue. Furthermore, she felt a strong sense of alienation from the structured organization. Rather than devoting herself to Wajima lacquerware, she resolved to continue creating, focusing on improving her own work. After 10 years of studying lacquerware and 20 years of working in the industry, she has lived in this area, loving both lacquerware and Wajima lacquerware. Finally, she spoke to us about the decline of Wajima lacquerware. "Do you use lacquerware?" These were painful words that really hit home. Because he has loved and studied lacquerware and Wajima lacquerware more than anyone else, he spoke passionately about lacquerware that we are not familiar with, as if speaking on behalf of the loneliness of lacquerware that is not in demand among Japanese people.
Women are the main players in both selling and buying
Morning Market Street
The morning market begins every morning at 8am on Asaichi Street, in the heart of Wajima City. The women of Wajima line the streets, selling a variety of items, from dried fish caught at nearby fishing ports and agricultural produce to, of course, Wajima lacquerware. Sometimes they pull heavy handcarts or sit on cardboard boxes selling their modest produce. The Wajima morning market is staffed entirely by women, both sellers and buyers. Apparently, this is because the women of Wajima are said to be "worthless if they can't support two or three husbands." This morning market is a symbol of hardworking women earning a little money, little by little.
A workshop filled with all the charm of Wajima lacquerware
Wajima Workshop Row House
We visited Wajima Kobo Nagaya, a row of quaint row houses near Asaichi Street. This is a facility showcasing Wajima lacquerware, housing a museum, gallery, souvenir shop, and workshops. Through glass windows, visitors can see the process of topcoating, which is usually difficult to see. Past collaborative works are also stored here, and we saw a small box designed by Louis Vuitton. This design, featuring a maki-e monogram, was created as part of support for the recovery efforts following the Noto Peninsula earthquake. It was clear that the city's determination to preserve and preserve this tradition is already budding and taking shape.