Shoko
The Story
Upon seeing a work made by traditional lacquer techniques some 200 years ago, Shoko Taruma felt the spirituality and spirit of solemn training that continued to resonate from the work, long after the artist’s death. This was the beginning of a profound interest in lacquerware.
Born in Hiroshima, Shoko undertook studies at Kyoto City University of Arts, though she initially began working with sculpture. After completing a master’s degree at the Graduate School of Fine Arts, she remained in Kyoto, working as an artist both in Japan and abroad.
Recipient of the Kyoto City Art Newcomer Award, she has exhibited in various countries, which presented the opportunity to connect with the local traditions. It also deepened her understanding of the Japanese and Eastern cultures she was familiar with, which led to her present work.
Shoko finds inspiration in everything, but the spirituality that underpins the technology of an artwork is of primary importance. Art is a very mysterious thing, and it is very interesting to see, learn and realise good things through encounters that you had never imagined.
She is constantly thinking about what needs to be passed on for the future, and endeavors to leave behind something of value. Like in her own case, Shoko’s main aim is that the people who see her work will be motivated or inspired to do something with their lives after she herself is gone.
The Craft
Japan has used lacquer for painting, gluing, and shaping over its millennia long history. When studying the traditional techniques handed down today, it is clear that a great deal of research and ingenuity has gone into making the best use of this material. Every one of the techniques that Shoko utilizes involves more than thirty steps, each having an important role to play.
Lacquerware is not only a technique, but also a spirituality. The black surfaces created through the aforementioned processes are deep and beautiful. It is a deep black that leads the viewer’s gaze into the inner world of the object. When looking at the black of the lacquer, one feels as if they were looking themselves.
Shoko offers studio tours and a hands-on experience. After viewing her work and hearing an explanation of her philosophy and process, visitors have the opportunity to create lacquered chopsticks and plates (maki-e).
Selected works
