Murakami Jochiku Utsushi Dragonfly & Narcissus
NBSK 2016
Gold Medal Winner - Tosogu
Top Prize Distinction - Chairman's Award
Very pleased to have taken top prize once again in the tosogu category for the 2016 NBSK Craftsmen Competition. The entry was another utsushi of a Murakami Jochiku masterpiece, this one featuring a dragonfly and narcissus theme. As with the original, it is rendered in shakudo, shibuichi, fine gold and mother of pearl inlay.
~Sold~
NBSK Competition catalog and poster featuring this winning piece along with custom box are included.
As a metalsmith, I am driven by a deep reverence for the intrinsic connection between raw materials, the self, and the natural world. Working exclusively with hand tools, I engage in a tactile dialogue with metal, forging a symbiotic relationship between creator and creation. Each piece I craft is an exploration of this intimate connection, a journey where the boundaries between self and material blur, revealing the essence of both. With every strike of the hammer and every careful cut of the chisel, I delve into a world where craftsmanship is not merely a skill, but a sacred practice. Drawing inspiration from the rhythms of nature, my work is imbued with the fluidity of flowing rivers, the strength of ancient trees, and the resilience of rugged landscapes. Through the lens of nature, I discover new dimensions of myself, reflecting upon the interconnectedness of all things. Beyond the confines of my studio, I am a devoted husband and father. Parenthood has led me on a profoundly transformative journey, particularly as a father of an autistic child. In the quiet moments spent tending to my garden or beneath the canvas of the night sky while camping, I find solace and inspiration. These experiences infuse my work with a sense of empathy and understanding, guiding me to create pieces that resonate with the human experience in its myriad forms.
craftsmanship
Dedication to the art of metalsmithing is rooted in a commitment to tradition and authenticity. By eschewing modern machinery in favor of hand tools, I honor the timeless techniques passed down through generations. Each piece I create bears the mark of this meticulous craftsmanship, a testament to the enduring beauty of handmade artistry.
philosophy
In a world filled with noise and distraction, I seek to create objects of quiet contemplation and enduring beauty. My art invites viewers to pause, to reflect, and to connect with the essence of the natural world and the depths of their own being. Through the alchemy of metal and soul, I strive to forge a path towards harmony and understanding, one hammer strike at a time.