The cuticles of Minako Ito’s fingernails are coated black from working 12-hour days with urushi, a tar-like tree sap.
Working out of her Tokyo studio, the 31-year-old artist forms wood or gypsum molds and coats the pieces with sumac bush sap.
The striking, detailed designs using gold, silver and mother-of-pearl are inspired by American painter Andrew Wyeth.
“Urushi used to be very common. It was something people kept in their closet,” says Ito, who will exhibit her urushi lacquerware art at the Club from January 16. “I want people to take it out and appreciate it.”
The Tokyo native graduated from Kyoto University of Art and Design before completing a master’s in urushi technique at Tokyo University of the Arts.
Gallery Exhibition
Jan 16–Feb 5
Gallery Reception
Free
Open to adults, invitees and Members only
