THE MAKERS

CRAFTSPEOPLE OF KYOTO

They’re redefining traditional crafts with new practices and techniques. Now, follow along as we meet some of the most inspiring makers of Kyoto, Japan.

Eriko Horiki working with washi paper in Kyoto.
Episode 4
Washi Paper

 Eriko Horiki is a washi paper expert. Washi is handmade Japanese paper made from techniques established over 1300 years ago. It uses the inner bark of Japanese trees and shrubs like the Mulberry bush. It’s beautiful yet tough and is used in traditional arts such as Origami.

Where tradition and innovation meet

Eriko Horiki is respectful of traditional washi methods but likes to question them: “When the art was in its infancy over 1300 years ago, washi techniques must have been considered quite innovative. But yesterday’s innovations are today’s traditions”. Her style is to combine the traditional with modern innovations by harnessing the latest technology. The result is washi paper of rare and timeless beauty.

Washi paper, combining traditional with modern innovations.

“Innovation and tradition are not opposing forces...tradition is the evolutionary result of
hundreds of years of working with innovative techniques”.

 

Eriko Horiki - Kyoto

Eriko Horiki walking towards a red INFINITI QX55 sedan in Kyoto.

A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

From the origami pattern grille and Japanese craftsmanship, to the digital piano key headlights and four cylinder 2.0 liter VC-Turbo engine, the INFINITI QX55 is the embodiment of traditions and world’s-first innovations working in balanced harmony.

Explore the QX55

More Episodes
A Japanese craftsman handling tools in Kyoto.

EP 1 - TEA CADDY

Takahiro Yagi’s family-run workshop uses ancient Japanese design practices, such as shitate and mitate, to bring his traditional tea caddy creations to life.
A Japanese craftsman working with metal wires in Kyoto.

EP 2 - METAL KNITTING

At the sight of his tattoos, Toru Tsuji was snubbed by his peers. But like his unique aesthetic, Tsuji-san is using unconventional methods to help his craft thrive.
A Japanese craftsman hammering a wooden bowl in Kyoto.

EP 3 - WOODEN BUCKETS

He stepped out alone to forge his own craft. Now, Shuji Nakagawa’s mix of contemporary and modern design aims to redefine Japan’s very definition of beauty.
INFINITI The Makers Episode 4 Preview

EP 4 - WASHI PAPER

Horiki Eriko left a career in banking to become an expert washi maker, a traditional form of Japanese paper-making that dates back over 1300 years. 
INFINITI The Makers Preview For Episode 5

EP 5 - CERAMICS

Coming this November.
INFINITI The Makers Preview For Episode 6

EP 6 - BAMBOO

Coming this December.

THE STORY CONTINUES

Follow along as we reveal future updates and announcements.

 

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