Engraving ‘Life’ in Chinkin | Yuko Kasuga, Master of Gold Inlay Lacquer Art

Taking Chinkin to the World

Ms. Kasuga first entered the Japan-France Contemporary Art World Exhibition in 2018 – a step she might not have taken without encouragement from a fellow coworking space member who, after visiting her exhibition, suggested, “Why not try entering international competitions?” The positive response from overseas, where “many people were drawn to my work,” became a source of motivation for her artistic journey.

However, she doesn’t consciously incorporate Japanese elements just because she’s exhibiting internationally. “I simply entrust to chinkin what moves my heart,” she says. This fundamental approach remains unchanged.

Tradition and innovation, and above all, a sincere contemplation of what it means to be alive – Ms. Kasuga’s chinkin works exude not only technical mastery but also a gentle vitality and human warmth. Working from her unconventional studio in a coworking space, she continues to expand the possibilities of chinkin art.

Yuko Kasuga – Chinkin Artist
Born March 1978 in Hachioji, Tokyo, where she currently resides. A graduate of the Wajima Lacquerware Technology Training Institute in Ishikawa Prefecture, where she studied under Master Fumio Mae, who is now a Living National Treasure (Bearer of Important Intangible Cultural Property). After gaining experience through demonstration sales at major department stores’ Japanese tableware sections, she now creates many commissioned works. While grounded in traditional chinkin techniques, she pursues innovative artistic activities, including applying the technique to new materials and participating in international competitions and exhibitions, where her work has received awards.

Solo Exhibitions

Group Exhibitions

Awards and Selections

(December 2024 Interview, Aiko Adachi)