Profile

I was drawn to the distinctive expressive qualities of lacquer art—created through the use of gold, silver, and platinum powders, as well as shell—which led me to become an urushi artist. Using plants, flowers, and animals as motifs, my work explores the beauty found in nature and everyday life.
Lacquer objects are often associated with special occasions, but I seek to make the beauty of maki-e and raden more accessible by focusing primarily on wall-hung works that can be enjoyed like paintings. I also create tea utensils, lacquerware, and accessories.
While valuing the traditional and realistic techniques passed down since the Nara and Heian periods, I aim to create works that resonate with those who encounter them. Commissions are welcome, and I would be pleased to hear from you.
Atsuko Shiomi
Biography
2000
Born in Kyoto
2018
Graduated from Senior High School Attached to Kyoto University of Education
2022
Graduated from Kyoto City University of Arts
2023
Completed Advanced Urushi Lacquer Art Course at Kyoto Municipal Institute of Industrial Technology & Culture
Completed a short-term training course in Kaga, Ishikawa Prefecture,
under urushi lacquer artist Tomizo Saratani
2025
Assistant Instructor, Kyoto Municipal Institute of Industrial Technology & Culture
Exhibitions & Awards
2023
Japan New Crafts Exhibition: The 6th Student Selection Exhibition,
Tokyo and Kyoto
2023
Urushi Nanairo Market, Shiga
2024
Solo Exhibition, Art Gallery Kitano, Kyoto
2025
Joint Exhibition, alumnae of urushi, Lonicera, Nara
2025
Solo Exhibition, Gallery Yamashita No.2, Kyoto
2025
Selected for “Palm”, the 1st Open Call Exhibition for New Works organized by the Hayashibara Museum of Art (Houju / Wish-Granting Jewel)
2026
“Houju” exhibited at Nagase Viita Gallery
(on the grounds of the Hayashibara Museum of Art), Okayama