Masahito SHIHO
Masahito SHIHO (Japan)
Project Director of Design Center Ishikawa
“The future of Urushi is bright.” For some reason, this was the distinct impression that struck me as I looked upon the numerous works gathered for this Final Assessment. I am well aware that, given the harsh realities currently facing the industry, this might be seen as a remarkably optimistic view.
The submissions were even more diverse than in the previous exhibition. From seasoned masters to emerging talents, creators competed on the basis of originality, the intrigue of their creative intent, and the sheer quality of their work, creating that palpable tension unique to a high-level competition.
The directions of the works were incredibly varied—ranging from pieces where the artist’s individuality shone through and those boasting superlative technique, to vessels for daily use, household tools, and industrial products. Many expressions and proposals defied simple categorization as either “Art” or “Design,” making the judging process a truly difficult yet rewarding challenge for the jury.
In the Art category, high praise was given to sculptural works with free and airy forms, pieces that seemed to capture the very breath of the creatures they depicted, and works that used sophisticated Urushi techniques to replicate familiar, everyday objects. In the Design category, we saw many pieces that applied traditional regional techniques in ways that felt fresh and contemporary, making one genuinely want to incorporate them into daily life.
What I felt most strongly through this encounter with the works was the natural, unconstrained manner in which the creators engaged with Urushi. This approach lent the works a pleasing sense of karumi—an unforced lightness. Whether the piece was a vessel or an art object, I sensed a potent “lifestyle aesthetic”—a desire to bring these works into one’s life and find joy in them. This, I believe, is the reason I felt the future of Urushi to be so bright. Be it vessels, tools, wearable items, or objects that adorn our living spaces and provide a sense of comfort, Urushi is something that deserves to be rediscovered and reappreciated in the lifestyles of tomorrow. I look forward to its future with great anticipation.