Tsuneo Nakazawa (b. 1973) is a metal craftsman based in Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture. After graduating from the Department of Art and Design at Musashino Art University in 1998, Nakazawa worked at a blacksmith shop in Japan for a year before moving abroad to study metal forging techniques in Germany, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Italy.
Nakazawa uses metal forging to create a wide range of works, from chagama—traditional cast iron pots—to decorative sculpture. He creates his pieces by applying heat and directly hammering the metal, rather than using welding or molds. This method requires immense strength and dedication, resulting in the charming and rustic quality his work is known for.
Artist Timeline
1973 Born in Japan
1998 Graduated from Musashino Art University in 1998.
1999–2003 Apprenticed at forging and blacksmithing workshops across Europe, including Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and the Czech Republic
1999 Participated in the Tobiashammer Blacksmiths' Symposium (Germany)
2004–Present Based in Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, where he continues his practice
Selected Exhibitions
2021 Iron at Ippodo (group exhibition), Ippodo Gallery
2023 Moonlit Tea Gathering, Ippodo Gallery (subsequently exhibited in 2024 and 2025)
2023 Flying Birds Exhibition, Ippodo Gallery
2024 Flying Birds Masters Exhibition, Ippodo Gallery (subsequently exhibited in 2025 and 2026)
-
Artist Talk with Satoshi Nemoto and Tsuneo Nakazawa
31 Oct 2026We are delighted to welcome the calligrapher Satoshi Nemoto and metal artist Tsuneo Nakazawa, who travel from Japan, to celebrate their New York exhibition at...Read more -
Opening Reception: Leaves of Words on October 30
30 Oct 2026We are delighted to welcome the calligrapher Satoshi Nemoto and metal artist Tsuneo Nakazawa, who travel from Japan, to celebrate their New York exhibition at...Read more -
Fine Arts Paris 2026
19 - 23 Sep 2026PARIS, FRANCE— Ippodo Gallery debuts at Fine Arts Paris at Booth N25 in the historic Grand Palais from September 19–23, 2026. Quiet Metamorphosis: A Resurgence of Kogei highlights a timely revival of Japanese fine-art-craft. Drawing upon time-honored traditions, these most contemporary works evoke a visceral and meditative presence: this is a profound creative metamorphosis happening quietly in our time. In the nineteenth century, revolutionary Japonisme transfixed the landscape of French culture and Western art through flat perspective, vivid naturalism, and asymmetric composition. Japan’s contemporary masters honor artistic heritage whilst approaching their materials with a radically modern sensibility. Their creations bring ancient craft into the era of contemporary art. Under the majestic dome of the Grand Palais—the historic site of the World’s Fairs which ignited global passion for Japanese aesthetics—Quiet Metamorphosis: A Resurgence of Kogei awakens an essential philosophy of beauty.Read more