Nakamura Toshito
Nakamura Toshito is celebrated for his exceptional realism, enlivening nature’s beauty across the surfaces of Kutani ware. His work transcends traditional motifs, blending intricate, lifelike depictions of flora, fauna, and wildlife with refined brush techniques. Viewers are invited to connect deeply with the tranquility and balance found in the natural world through Nakamura’s meticulous attention to detail. His art brings comfort, creating a moment of calm amid the bustle of everyday moments.
Realism on Kutani Ware
At the heart of Nakamura’s artistic philosophy is the belief that composition defines the entire atmosphere of a piece, with endless possibilities to explore. Often portraying birds in moments of untamed elegance, he carefully balances stillness and movement, knowing that even subtle shifts in placement can shape the emotional impact of the work. His process begins with detailed sketches, experimenting with arrangements until the elements align in a way that feels natural and connected. Beyond capturing the beauty of his subjects, Nakamura seeks to evoke a sense of calm, offering viewers a moment of quiet reflection.
Nakamura’s mastery also shines through in his use of thefuritechnique, where pigments are veiled across the surface in delicate layers. This method involves a fine metal mesh and a specialized brush, with pigment scattered by gently rubbing the brush against the mesh. Achieving the soft gradations that characterize Nakamura’s work requires repeated layering, building a textured airiness and delicate blurring effects. This process demands great skill and becomes even more challenging when applied to larger surfaces.
Biography
Nakamura Toshito, born in 1949, began his artistic journey in Kutani ware after leaving a corporate career to pursue his passion for painting. His talent was first recognized in 1979 at theJapanese Contemporary Arts and Crafts Exhibition. Since then, he has been featured regularly in esteemed exhibitions, including the Traditional Kutani Ware Craft Exhibition and the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition. In 1991, Nakamura became a lecturer at the Ishikawa Prefectural Kutani Porcelain Training Center, passing on his skills to the next generation. A full member of the Japan Kogei Association and Master of Traditional Craft, Nakamura is celebrated for his contributions to preserving Japanese traditional arts.
