Murakami Jochiku Utsushi Daikoku & Ebisu
NBSK 2015
Gold Medal Winner - Tosogu
Top Prize Distinction - Sakaki Mayor's Award
In the Summer 2015 I was awarded the top honor in the category of sword fittings (tosogu) for my Murakami Jochiku utsushi (copy of a well known piece). This being my first ever entry the unexpected success came as a pleasant surprise. I won "Tokusho" (top or unique prize) in the annual NBSK (Nihonto Bunka Shinko Kyokai - The Foundation of Japanese Sword Culture for the Purpose of Public Interest) awards.
I attended the awards ceremony that year and encountered some amazing places and people during my time there. It was a fantastic experience and I would like to thank all the wonderful people who helped make this happen. I would also like to thank all of the people that I was fortunate enough to meet and share this experience with. I continue to feel both fortunate and humbled.
-SOLD-
As a metalsmith, I am driven by a deep reverence for the intrinsic connection between raw materials, the self, and the natural world. Working exclusively with hand tools, I engage in a tactile dialogue with metal, forging a symbiotic relationship between creator and creation. Each piece I craft is an exploration of this intimate connection, a journey where the boundaries between self and material blur, revealing the essence of both. With every strike of the hammer and every careful cut of the chisel, I delve into a world where craftsmanship is not merely a skill, but a sacred practice. Drawing inspiration from the rhythms of nature, my work is imbued with the fluidity of flowing rivers, the strength of ancient trees, and the resilience of rugged landscapes. Through the lens of nature, I discover new dimensions of myself, reflecting upon the interconnectedness of all things. Beyond the confines of my studio, I am a devoted husband and father. Parenthood has led me on a profoundly transformative journey, particularly as a father of an autistic child. In the quiet moments spent tending to my garden or beneath the canvas of the night sky while camping, I find solace and inspiration. These experiences infuse my work with a sense of empathy and understanding, guiding me to create pieces that resonate with the human experience in its myriad forms.
craftsmanship
Dedication to the art of metalsmithing is rooted in a commitment to tradition and authenticity. By eschewing modern machinery in favor of hand tools, I honor the timeless techniques passed down through generations. Each piece I create bears the mark of this meticulous craftsmanship, a testament to the enduring beauty of handmade artistry.
philosophy
In a world filled with noise and distraction, I seek to create objects of quiet contemplation and enduring beauty. My art invites viewers to pause, to reflect, and to connect with the essence of the natural world and the depths of their own being. Through the alchemy of metal and soul, I strive to forge a path towards harmony and understanding, one hammer strike at a time.