Tsugaru Lacquerware Artist Kenichi Sudo
Kenichi Sudo, a Tsugaru lacquerware artist, creates pieces that brim with innovation.
As the son of master craftsman Hachijuhachi Sudo, Kenichi has inherited traditional Tsugaru lacquer techniques, yet his creativity and open-minded approach bring fresh enjoyment to his audience.Originally, Sudo dreamed of becoming a motorcycle police officer, but after high school, he studied the fundamentals of Tsugaru lacquerware at an industrial training institute.
He further honed his skills at the Wajima Lacquerware Technical Institute in Ishikawa, mastering “kyu-urushi” (the art of lacquer application, from undercoating to final finishing) and maki-e (decorative lacquer).
Upon returning to Tokyo, Sudo primarily entered competitions. However, he eventually encountered the world of crafts, where he found freedom and flexibility. Inspired by the idea of people using his creations, he decided to study crafting techniques.
Sudo’s pieces stand out with unique, clever ideas that shine through their simple forms, making everyday life feel more enjoyable simply by having them."New ideas never come from doing nothing.
So, I try to see as many things as I can. Whenever I visit Tokyo, I wander through art museums, shops, and other interesting places. I may not have a specific purpose, but if something catches my eye, it leaves an impression.
Later, when I'm creating, I recall those things that inspired me and transform those ideas into my own."Sudo says that creating brings him the greatest joy. When crafting, he deeply values the warmth of natural materials.
"One day, at Tokyo's Tokyu Hands, I saw someone buying a simple board to make a table. It made me realize that people today crave the feel of natural wood.
Tsugaru lacquerware is traditionally made from Japanese cypress, but once it's entirely coated, you can't tell if it's wood or plastic. So, I started making pieces where only the base is uncoated.
It takes extra work, but leaving some of that natural warmth and figuring out how to incorporate it into the design is exciting."
Yet, the charm of Sudo’s work goes beyond the warmth of wood. It’s undoubtedly backed by his superb skill and tireless dedication.