Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Shinozaki Glass Crafts stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Edo Kiriko, a Japanese glass art form celebrated for its meticulous patterns and captivating designs. Founded by Kiyokazu Shinozaki, a visionary who embarked on his craft after moving from Gunma Prefecture to Tokyo at the age of 15, the atelier has become synonymous with unparalleled craftsmanship and a distinctive aesthetic that sets it apart in the Edo Kiriko landscape. Kiyokazu's journey began with a rigorous apprenticeship at other workshops, where he mastered various techniques, laying the foundation for what would become a hallmark of Shinozaki Glass Crafts.
In 1957, Kiyokazu established his own studio, driven by a relentless pursuit to create “something truly unique”. This ethos of crafting the unparalleled was not just a personal mantra but a legacy passed down to his son, Hideaki Shinozaki, who took up the mantle with a commitment to innovation while honoring the rich traditions of their craft. Today, under the watchful eye of Hideaki, the studio thrives with five artisans, including the promising Shota Shinozaki, poised to carry the family legacy into the future.
“Don’t create something people can’t recognize you made it” - Kiyokazu S.
Shinozaki Glass Crafts has carved its niche with designs that echo the complexity and beauty of a kaleidoscope, where patterns and motifs dance in the light, offering a glimpse into an intricate world. The studio's creations, ranging from the traditional to the avant-garde, are sought after by prestigious customers for their exquisite quality and as cherished gifts, underscoring the studio's esteemed position in the manufacture of premium Edo Kiriko.
The Shinozaki ethos, deeply ingrained by Kiyokazu and embraced by Hideaki and Shota, is characterized by a profound sense of responsibility to continue producing work that stands up to the Shinozaki name. This dedication to authenticity and original expression has been the driving force behind the studio's evolving designs, which are brought to life through artisans’ hands.
"The time when I think 'this is good enough' will probably never come.
'Next time, I'll make something even better' is what a craftsman thinks.” - Hideaki S.
Shinozaki Glass Crafts is more than just a studio; it is a beacon of artistic integrity, where the legacy of Edo Kiriko is not only preserved but reimagined through the hands of its skilled, award-winning artisans. From the delicate dance of patterns on their glasses to the weight of their larger, more ambitious pieces, every creation is a narrative of dedication, innovation, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
As Shinozaki continues to push the boundaries of Edo Kiriko, they invite us to explore the endless possibilities of glass, merging the time-honored with the contemporary, and in doing so, they craft not just objects of beauty but vessels of cultural heritage and artistic vision.