雪夫 魚長 (Yukio Shakunaga)

Yukio Shakunaga was a takumi or a notable Japanese artist from Toyama born in 1939, recognized for his innovative contributions to contemporary art. He was primarily an abstract painter, exploring themes of nature and spirituality through vibrant colors and dynamic forms. Shakunaga's work often blurred the lines between traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern expressions, reflecting his deep understanding of both. He gained international recognition, exhibiting in galleries across Japan and abroad.

Throughout his career, he focused on the interplay of light and shadow, creating immersive experiences for viewers. Shakunaga's artistic legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists dedicated to exploring the boundaries of visual art. He always used the technique called Etchu-yeto-saki.

Steve Jobs, the creator of the iPhone once visited Kyoto where he had heard of Shakunaga's work. He had admired his pottery so much, that he even bought several cups, vases and plates and went to the show three times that week. He returned to Kyot0 many times and once, he was able to meet Shakunaga in person. Jobs had a lot of questions for him, mostly about the fabrication and the porcelain he used. He explained that he used white porcelain that he would extract from the mountains himself in the Toyama prefecture, making him the only artist familiar with the fabrication process of porcelain objects from their origins in the mountains to their final form - an authentic takumi. Steve Jobs was very impressed with his creations and the way he would create them. It is said that he had an unusual interest.

Just Imagine! Shakunaga would go to the mountains to get porcelain for his pottery, and just going till those mountains was a four-hour train ride. Doesn't it get tiring? Although it is tiring, Shakunaga would obviously get tired going many miles away from Kyoto, but this tiredness can also be described as "good tired" that comes from doing something worthwhile.

Now here's a question for you: What is the one thing you would do regularly , no matter how tiring it is, but you would be happy doing it , especially something worthwhile