"From Japan to the world. Carrying tradition to the present and onto the future.”
Born into a venerable Japanese doll boutique that has thrived for over 160 years, Saki, an armor artist, grew up immersed in the Japanese tradition of celebrating seasonal transitions with decorative dolls and witnessing crafting process by skilled artisans in a daily life. This environment instilled in her the desire to preserve and pass on traditional crafts and artisanal skills for future generations.
Among various types of doll, Saki chose to become armor artist. She saw her reflection in the armor, historically used in battle and evolving in form through the ages. Armor, more than just protective gear, was the extravagant official attire of warlords, appearing resplendent and formidable. Yet, the true feelings of the wearers might not always reflect their outward appearance, often harboring fear and anxiety as they marched into battle. This external facade, created by the necessity to fight and move forward, resonated with Saki, providing her with a medium for self-expression through armor.
Establishing her own Sunada Corporation separate from her family’s enterprise was a significant step for her. It is centered around the theme of converting and perpetuating esteemed Japan’s traditional crafts into contemporary art for people all over the world to enjoy. This embodies her will to elevate the family’s legacy, through its long-standing history, to greater heights.
As times change, so does the value and appeal of traditional crafts, yet their creation remains predominantly handmade, a testament to the authenticity and solemnity only achievable through the human touch.
"I aspire to release into the world a unique modern art, never seen before, crafted from the overlapping skills of various Japanese traditional artisans.”
Holding a gemologist certification from GIA (Gemological Institute of America), Saki also incorporates elements of jewelry into her armor, blending the robustness of the armor with a delicate, sparkling ambiance. She is confident that tradition, developed over centuries, stands as a dignified art form that Japan can proudly present to the world. Her creations allow one to perceive the outward face of humanity and the inward emotions hidden beneath.