Tsuneo Nakazawa b. 1973

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