The eldest son of the second generation Usaburo. Born in Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture in 1972. Studied under the first Usaburo from the age of 20. While respecting the grain and texture of wood, he brings a new twist to kokeshi crafts with a dynamic aesthetic that goes beyond preconceived ideas. Awards: – the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award for “Blue storm” at National Modern Kokeshi Exhibition in 2002
Born and raised in Shibukawa City in Gunma prefecture, Toa Sekiguchi lives and works with his family who also create Sosaku Kokeshi with him. This award-winning artist received the Ministry of International Trade Industry Award in 1978, and have since won the Prime Minister’s Award, among many other respected accolades. Sekiguchi employs beautifully painted Mizuki (Japanese Dogwood), for most of his kokeshi pieces. He uses the technic of deep carving to define the
Born in Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture in 1952. Studied under the first Usaburo from the age of 22. Expressing people’s daily lives with smooth shapes and soft lines. The popular work “Happy Buddha” was born from customer feedback. Awards: – the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award for “Ginkgo leaves dance” and more…
The eldest son of the first Usaburo. Born in Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture in 1948. Studied under his father from the age of 22. His generosity overlaps with his creative style, which simply expresses the comfort and warmth of people and everyday life. In 2013, he was commended as a meritorious person in Gunma prefecture, leading the creative kokeshi industry in Gunma. Awards: – the Prime Minister’s Award – the Minister of Education,