Nobuyasu SUGINAKA

Nobuyasu Suginaka, born in 1964 in Shiga Prefecture near Kyoto, is a highly accomplished lacquer craftsman with over 40 years of experience in the intricate art of lacquering and restoring Buddhist altars in Nagahama City. Specializing in traditional techniques such as haku-oshi and roiro, widely regarded as the pinnacle of lacquer technique, he brings unmatched skill and precision to his work. As a master of urushi lacquer, he has developed an unparalleled understanding of this extraordinary medium, expertly restoring even severely damaged vessels and transforming them into timeless works of art.
In addition to his dedication to authentic kintsugi technique, he incorporates decorative lacquer techniques such as nashiji into his kintsugi creations, giving each piece a distinctive artistic flair that reflects his decades of expertise. Passionate about sharing the wonders of urushi lacquer with a global audience, he has been an integral part of The Kintsugi Labo JAPAN since its inception, working to introduce the philosophy and beauty of kintsugi to customers around the world.
In addition to his kintsugi work, he creates unique lacquerware that embodies the transformative qualities of urushi lacquer. His Samon-nuri series, inspired by the waves of Lake Biwa, features a textured, dynamic finish, while his popular Bamboo series features a radiant, transparent sheen achieved through multiple layers of lacquer and meticulous polishing. Each piece he creates tells a story of heritage, artistry and renewal, captivating collectors and art lovers alike with its blend of tradition and innovation.
His work represents the heart of Japanese lacquer art, making each Kintsugi piece not just an object, but a celebration of the resilience, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance of urushi lacquer.

Collection: CIDAP (Centro Interamericano de Artes Populares), Cuenca, Ecuador Exhibit: 2023 KAKEHASHI, a Kintsugi artwork to symbolize the friendship between Ecuador and Japan.

Keiko HATA

Born in Boston, USA, Keiko Hata graduated from the Kyoto City University of Arts, Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Crafts, with a specialization in Urushi Lacquering in 2012. She further honed her craft by completing a Master's Degree in the same field at the Graduate School of Arts, Kyoto City University of Arts, in 2014.
Her work explores the Japanese lacquer techniques of kawari-nuri and raden inlay, drawing inspiration from natural motifs such as the sky, clouds, the sea, and starry nights. These elements evoke a serene yet profound connection to nature, expressed through the intricate beauty of urushi lacquer artistry.
Her cultivated background in urushi lacquer restoration, including the conservation of Buddhist statues, has deepened her appreciation for the material's limitless potential-not only for practical restoration, but as a medium for creating timeless works of art.
In addition to the authentic kintsugi technique, she incorporates decorative lacquer techniques into her kintsugi pieces, giving her pieces a distinctive and artistic touch that only a trained urushi lacquer artist can achieve. Each piece she restores tells a unique story, blending artistry and craftsmanship.
Passionate about sharing the rich traditions of urushi lacquer with the world through kintsugi, she explores the unique lustrous textures, colors and finishes, introducing global audiences to the beauty of the Japanese lacquer art form.
Through her work, Keiko Hata transforms broken pottery into one-of-a-kind masterpieces, redefining urushi lacquer as more than a restoration material - it is a celebration of artistry, heritage, and renewal.

Selected Exhibitions-
“Hirakata Artists Exhibition vol. 2”, Hirashin Art Gallery, Osaka (2023) 
“Art Sprout vol. 1: Keiko Hata Exhibition - The Quiet Power of Lacquer”, Gallery Apron, Osaka (2018)
Awards-
Kyoto City University of Arts Alumni Association Prize (2012)
Excellence Award at the 2nd Offering to the Gods (2010)

Maki MIZUNO

Maki Mizuno, born in Shiga Prefecture, graduated from the Faculty of Fine Arts, Department of Crafts at Kyoto City University of Arts in 2017, with a specialization in urushi lacquer. Her work blends traditional Japanese craftsmanship with a contemporary artistic sensibility, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and quietly expressive.
Her creative practice ranges from delicate watercolors inspired by the natural beauty of Japan to formative artworks using urushi lacquer and the traditional lacquer techniques such as raden inlay. Drawing on her painting background, she brings a refined visual harmony to her kintsugi creations, treating each restored vessel not simply as a restored object, but as a work of art in its own right - rich in feeling and depth.
Her signature lies in the interplay of vibrant colors and the deep black of urushi lacquer, creating powerful contrasts that do more than captivate the eye - they quietly challenge the viewer to pause, reflect, and engage on a deeper level. Through her work, she continues to encourage introspection, inviting each person to reconsider their everyday emotions, perceptions, and the subtle beauty found in the passage of time. Each piece becomes a silent dialogue between tradition and the present, the artist and the viewer.
A tribute to heritage and an expression of modern artistry, Maki Mizuno's work reveals the enduring potential of Japanese lacquer art in today's world.

Awards-
Highest Honors – Shiga Prefectural Art Association President’s Award & Shiga Association of Formative Arts Groups Encouragement Award, Shiga Museum of Art (2024)
Highest Honors – Shiga Prefectural Art Association President’s Award & Shiga Association of Formative Arts Groups Encouragement Award, Shiga Museum of Art (2023)

Isono Revitalizing Office, LLC.

Isono Revitalizing Office LLC is a Japanese management consulting firm dedicated to supporting the arts and traditional crafts. Founded by Ken and Michie Isono, a passionate couple who also operate The Kintsugi Labo JAPAN, the company aims to revitalize local communities and businesses.
Our journey into the world of Kintsugi began when we met with Mr. Suginaka to provide business consulting services. Captivated by the artistry and profound philosophy of kintsugi and urushi lacquer, we immersed ourselves in this timeless craft. Ken is now deepening his knowledge of urushi lacquer at the Kyoto City University of Arts, while we are also actively involved in creating kintsugi pieces to expand the global market for this extraordinary art form.
We understand the challenges artists face in building an international business, from language barriers to branding, trade and logistics. That's why we are committed to being a bridge and sharing the beauty of urushi lacquer and kintsugi with the world.
Join us on this journey to connect with others and explore the refined elegance of kintsugi and urushi lacquer. Celebrating renewal and enduring beauty, urushi lacquer is known for its timeless appeal and is said to last over 1,000 years. Experience the enchantment of the Japanese lacquer art form!

Yosuke INUI

Mr. Yosuke Inui is a designer with extensive expertise in branding for the arts and crafts industry. He supports The Kintsugi Labo JAPAN by designing our brand logo and store cards, while also providing valuable insight into Kintsugi.
Through his global connections, he learned that many people overseas were looking for places to purchase authentic Kintsugi in Japan. Recognizing this growing demand, he encouraged us to start this business and help bridge traditional Japanese craftsmanship with a global audience. His continued support continues to shape our brand and mission to share the beauty of kintsugi and urushi lacquer with the world.