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Masaru Kawai

川合 優
Woodworker • 1979 –

A woodworker from Gifu Prefecture. Masaru Kawai studied architecture at university, and trained as a woodworker in Hida and upholstery in Kyoto before establishing his own workshop. Currently, he has set up his studio in his hometown of Mino. In addition to creating works that showcase the unique qualities of wood, such as furniture and tableware, he actively engages in activities to promote the Japanese aesthetic of wood and the charm of coniferous trees through his own brand “SOMA.”

BASED IN
Minokamo, Gifu Prefecture
WEB SITE

POINT OF VIEW

This contemplation of the relationship between nature and humans, and the attitude towards forests in Japan, are not limited to woodworkers; they serve as a reflection of how one can live in harmony with trees. The serene and refreshing aura of these tranquil works captivates people, perhaps because they are imbued with the artist’s strong desire to encourage others to rediscover the allure of wood through these beautiful pieces.

CRAFT ARTIST BIOGRAPHY

1979

Born in Gifu Prefecture, Japan

2001

Graduated from Department of Architecture, Faculty of Arts, Kyoto Seika University

2003

Trained in woodworking in Hida

2005

Trained in upholstery in Kyoto

2008

Established own workshop in Kyoto

2016

Launched activities under the brand “SOMA”

2019

Held SOMA exhibition at The Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum

2022

Exhibited at the Museum of Far Eastern Antiquities in Sweden

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