【Review】by Fumie Erikawa
Assistant Chief, Development, Yokohama Museum of Art

This is a wooden vessel with a height (depth) that seems liberated from the stereotypical Japanese "confectionery container" concept. We speculate that the artist's intention in naming this work "KASHIKI" was to uphold Japanese cultural identity while also wishing for people from diverse backgrounds, not limited to Japanese individuals, to engage with this vessel freely and explore its potential uses.

Crafted through the processes of grinding on the potter's wheel, planing, and bending, this artwork showcases two types of covered vessels with distinct aesthetics honed by skilled artisans' woodworking techniques passed down through generations. One features a refined design with a lid and base crafted using "chiseling" and an elegantly curved rim made of "bending." Despite the experimental blend of "chiseling" and "bending" methods, the final finish remains natural and invites a smooth and pristine tactile experience.

The other piece adopts a basket-like form with uprights fashioned from slender "round rods." Although the interior and exterior of the vessel are delineated, the passage of light and air creates a refreshing ambiance. Despite being a mere 3 millimeters thin, the round rod exudes a substantial presence, likely due to its meticulous crafting with a specialized milling tool. I found it intriguing how the "bending" conveyed a sense of lightness while the "round rod" embodied a certain weightiness.

Now, what should be placed in these two containers? What would you delicately store within the confines of the "bending"? What would subtly emanate through the crevices of the "round stick"? These aesthetically pleasing and versatile containers seamlessly integrate into various lifestyles, showcasing remarkable adaptability. It's delightful to envision how this artwork would complement someone else's hands.