Junpei Kawaguchi (b. 1978) creates dynamic works using the traditional art form of rattan fibers, some of which are dyed with iron. His meticulous creations include the six-fold flower pattern, which cast unique shadows as light pours through. His closely held techniques are inherited from his apprenticeship under master Nagasaki Makoto, who passed on the hanamusubi rattan history.
Selected Biography & Awards:
1978 Born in Ishikawa Prefecture; raised in Hiroshima Prefecture.
2001 Moved to Tottori in western Japan
2002 Began leather craft work
2004 Opened studio workshop
2009 Apprenticed to fiber artist Makoto Nagasaki
2023 Encouragement Prize, Crafts Division at the 98th National Exhibition of Japan
2024 Became a Tottori Prefecture certified craftsman