Kyo-butsugu/Buddhist Objects: Fujisawa Norifumi (Kyo-kinpakuoshi Tokowaka)
I am in the business of applying gold leaf to Buddhist altars and shrines.
I have been learning the art of gold leaf since I was a student and this year marks my 27th year.
"The application of gold leaf is a simple task, but that is precisely why it is difficult and profound." This was something that my master often said. Even now, during my career as an independent artisan, I keenly feel the weight of those words as I work.
The Kyoto Craftsman Studio initiative, which I joined in 2012, has also allowed me to build close relationships with people from various industries, not just others involved with Buddhist altars and objects. I am truly grateful that this gave me the chance to hold traditional craft-themed events that go beyond categories. In future, I hope to give many more people opportunities to learn about the beauty of gold leaf.
Profile
1975 Born in Kyoto City
1998 Graduated from Traditional Arts School of Kyoto's (currently
Traditional Arts Super College Of Kyoto) course in gold leaf craft
1998 Began studying under gold leaf artisan Masaharu Okamoto,
recognised as a Kyoto Master Craftsman and Contemporary Master
Craftsman
2015 Became an independent artisan under the name of Kyo-
kinpakuoshi Tokowaka
2016 Became a Certified Kyoto Traditional Products Craftsman (Kyo-
butsugu)
2018 Held a three-man exhibition in Paris
2019 Held a workshop in Taipei