Introduction
Koto Kataoka, a third-generation artisan at Kataoka Byōbu, brings new life to the age-old craft of folding screens. With a passion for merging traditional techniques with modern influences, including his love for American hip-hop, Kataoka-san is constantly exploring innovative ways to express Japanese culture through his art. In this exclusive interview, Kataoka-san shares his journey, the challenges of balancing creativity with business, and his vision for the future of folding screens.
Interview
Career
Untold Japan: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background as an artisan?
Koto Kataoka: I am the third-generation successor of Kataoka Byōbu. After working at a partner factory, I took over as president of Kataoka Byōbu and have been for ten years. In 2021, I explored new possibilities for folding screens by collaborating with local artists in Stockholm, Sweden.
UJ: What inspired you to pursue this craft, and how did you get started?
Kataoka: Although folding screens were always a part of my family business, I only began to truly appreciate them after traveling abroad and seeing Japan from an outside perspective. Through the family business of folding screens, I want to reintroduce and express the depth and beauty of Japanese traditions in crafts, clothing, food, and living. I asked my father to let me continue the family business.
UJ: Are there any particular cultural or personal influences that shape your work?
Kataoka: Since I was young, I loved music, especially American Hip-Hop. I was deeply inspired by the concept of "sampling", which involves reconstructing existing sounds to create something new. I try to incorporate this idea into my work with folding screens.
Craftsmanship and Techniques
UJ: What specific techniques do you use in your craft, and what makes them unique?
Kataoka: In the art of making folding screens, also known as mounting, it is essential to understand the properties of the paper being used. It is also a must to consider and anticipate the climate, including humidity and dryness. Depending on these conditions, the amount of water and the consistency of the glue used may need to be adjusted.
UJ: Can you share a challenging aspect of your work and how you overcame it?
Kataoka: Basically, I learned by observing and imitating, repeating the process many times. Since there are no clear rules, I blend the basics with my own methods.
UJ: How do you balance traditional craftsmanship with modern influences in your creations?
Kataoka: Well of course, it is important to cherish and pass down the traditional techniques that have been developed over time. However, the ways in which these techniques are used and the demand for them have changed significantly at a rapid pace. I hope that what I am creating now will become a tradition to 100 years from now.
Artistic Process
UJ: Could you walk us through your creative process from idea generation to the finished product?
Kataoka: When I come up with an idea, I first try to create it. I believe this is the strength of a craftsman. If I decide to sell it, I then refine and improve it in various ways.
UJ: Do you have a favorite or signature piece that holds a special meaning for you?
Kataoka: The folding screens I created with local artists in Sweden hold a special meaning for me. They represent the fusion of different cultures.
UJ: How do you decide on the materials you use, and what role do they play in your creations?
Kataoka: While I usually use materials based on customer requests, sometimes I choose them myself. The longevity and appearance of the finished product can vary depending on which material is being used.
Local Influence
UJ: How does your local environment and culture influence your work?
Kataoka: Since the start, we have been based in Sumida Ward, Tokyo. The unique atmosphere and sensibilities of Tokyo's downtown areas influence the folding screens themselves. More importantly, this environment has shaped our approach to sincerely engaging with customers during consultations.
UJ: Are there specific elements from Japan that consistently appear in your creations?
Kataoka: In folding screens, the most important aspect is the underlying structure beneath the beautiful surface. Investing time and effort into these unseen parts resonates deeply with the Japanese spirit and values.
UJ: Do you collaborate with other artisans or draw inspiration from the local community?
Kataoka: I am constantly inspired by other artists. Many of them transform traditional techniques into new products and expressions. I also frequently collaborate with young artists, which allows me to learn from their unique designs and expressions that I would not have thought of on my own.
Challenges and Rewards
UJ: What challenges do you face as an artisan, and how do you overcome them?
Kataoka: The major challenge is selling our products. No matter how good they are, it is difficult to sustain the business without sales. Since our company is primarily composed of young craftsmen, building their track records is also essential. Recently, we have started to expand internationally, a goal we've had for a long time, and this has helped us increase our achievements compared to before.
UJ: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your journey so far?
Kataoka: I feel satisfied in almost every aspect of my work, but I feel the most rewarded when I explain folding screens to people who are unfamiliar with them and see their reactions.
UJ: How do you balance creativity with the demands of running a business?
Kataoka: As the current president, I must think about managing the business. There are many things to consider, such as what products will sell, target market settings, and cost calculations. However, as a creator, I believe it's important to nurture my own creativity. Therefore, I make time after work to create things I enjoy.
Connection with Customers
UJ: How do you hope your customers feel when they own and use your products?
Kataoka: Folding screens are primarily meant to be displayed, and I would be delighted if they could uplift people's spirits even a little whenever they see them. At the same time, I hope they can also feel the essence of Japanese "和 = harmony".
UJ: Can you share a memorable experience or feedback from a customer?
Kataoka: One memorable experience was when I made a folding screen from a customer's late parents' cherished Obi (traditional sash). The customer said it reminded them of their parents whenever they saw it.
UJ: What message or emotion do you aim to convey through your creations?
Kataoka: I would be delighted if people could feel the old and beautiful traditions of Japan through folding screens. While various values and perspectives are important, I believe that a world where people can once again understand and take pride in Japanese identity would be even more wonderful.
Future Aspirations
UJ: What are your future goals and aspirations as an artisan?
Kataoka: I want to be a role model for the next generation of children. I also hope to convey that work and craftsmanship are viable ways to express oneself.
UJ: Are there new techniques or styles you would like to explore in the future?
Kataoka: I also like gadgets, and I want to explore new styles that incorporate them. For example, I am considering creating folding screens that play music.
UJ: How do you envision the role of your craft in the broader cultural context?
Kataoka: I believe folding screens embody the often-forgotten traditions of Japan. They have the potential to convey the importance of this long history both domestically and internationally.
UJ: Thank you for your time and for sharing your story!
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