Panel Discussion

Comments on the Jurors’ Special Prizes Winners (seven works)(3/7)

NATSUME(MC) ───── Next, the Motomi KAWAKAMI Prize:Kanshitsu Rinka Mizusashi (Dry Lacquer, Flower-shaped Water Jar) by Tomomi FURUKAWA. Mr KAWAKAMI, we would like to invite you to share your comments.

KAWAKAMI ───── I selected the Kanshitsu Rinka Mizusashi created by Tomomi FURUKAWA. This is a type of mizusashi (water jar) of which many have been made within the long history of Japanese traditional crafts. Yet, I sense something new in it. Upon closer inspection, while it is made with traditional kanshitsu (dry lacquer) methods, the details feel remarkably fresh. I have seen many such works, but this showed me that there is still new territory to be explored. Particularly in the realm of art, where sculptural expression is expanding, there is a history of those who aspire to be artists while remaining at the core of traditional industry. This work felt like a paradox, a crystallisation of the effort to find novelty while following tradition, and it moved me.

The finish is described as nuri-tate (leaving the final coat to dry without polishing), but the surface looks almost as if it has been polished. It is matte yet possesses a certain precision. The polygonal shape, the ripples, the flower petals… these details make it feel not old, but fresh. Perhaps it is a new kind of materiality? It feels connected to a meticulous Japanese aesthetic and tradition yet represents a new endeavor within the mainstream.
The artist is based in Iwate Prefecture. I suspect she might be active in the Joboji and Appi regions. Knowing that there is someone in that area doing something new while following tradition gives me a sense of reassurance and strength. It is a power directed towards the future. That is why I selected this for the prize.
NATSUME(MC) ───── Thank you, Mr KAWAKAMI.