Hiroshima Lacquer Studio Tour & Workshop With a Gift

Heads of state who attended the G7 Hiroshima Summit 2023 and their spouses were given gifts befitting the occasion. The city mayor offered them a sake drinking set with an elegant dove-shaped vessel symbolizing peace covered with a patina of lacquer meant to vary in color over time, much like the Seto Inland Sea it was inspired by. The Japanese Prime Minister’s wife opted for Akebono, a set of bowls with red and black gradation echoing the break of dawn and the start of a new day. Both lacquerware gifts endowed to presidents, prime ministers, and their families were a mesmerizing display of craftsmanship by the hand of Hiroshima artist Naoya Takayama. Born into a family of several generations of Buddhist altar artisans, Naoya Takayama learned about lacquer painting by studying Kyoto techniques and incorporating roiro (wax color) to create original pieces. His sleek silhouettes and delicate coatings have earned him multiple accolades and established him as a contemporary master of Japanese lacquerware. This workshop in Hiroshima provides a unique opportunity to learn from Takayama’s refined artistry. He will welcome you into his studio for an intimate journey through the history and culture of Japanese lacquerware where you will learn about his original creations, inspirations, and techniques. You will also explore your own artistic talents by molding lacquer under Takayama's careful guidance. By the end of the experience, you will receive a uniquely beautiful gift crafted by Takayama.