In the heart of Tokyos Nakano district, where tradition meets modernity, a quiet revolution in Japanese craftsmanship is unfolding. Welcome to NAKANOKUMO by artist Tasuku Murose and inventor Yasuyuki Nagato, a brand that elegantly bridges Japans storied past with its innovative present. With a dedication to heritage materials like urushi lacquer and the art of makie, NAKANOKUMO transforms cultural treasures into modern expressions of beauty, inviting a global audience to experience the richness of Japanese artistry.Natures Gift, ReimaginedFor centuries, Japans artisans have honored the natural world, transforming its giftswood, metal, and lacquerinto objects of profound beauty and purpose. At NAKANOKUMO, this legacy is reimagined for a modern audience. Each creation begins with a simple yet profound question: How can these ancient materials and techniques inspire a new way of living?Central to their work is urushi, a lacquer drawn from the sap of the urushi tree. With a history stretching back 9,000 years, urushi embodies resilience and elegance. Its deep, glossy finish is the result of a unique chemical reaction with air, creating a surface that is not only beautiful but also remarkably durable, resistant to acids, alkalis, and even the passage of time.Building on the timeless beauty of urushi, NAKANOKUMO combines its natural allure with contemporary design, creating objects that feel both grounded in heritage and relevant to modern life.The Art of Makie: A Dance of Gold and LacquerArtisan carefully brushing lacquer on the surfaceAt the heart of NAKANOKUMOs artistry lies makie, one of Japans most exquisite decorative techniques. This method, which originated in the Heian period over 1,400 years ago, involves sprinkling gold or silver powder over wet lacquer to create shimmering, intricate patterns. Once set, these metallic designs are embedded within additional layers of lacquer, polished to a luminous, mirror-like finish that captures the interplay of light and texture.NAKANOKUMOs makie creations are a testament to this delicate process, transforming accessories and home dcor into radiant works of art. Each piece offers a tactile experienceurushis silky smooth surface paired with makies shimmering brilliance captivates both touch and sight. Perfect for the minimalist wardrobe or as a centerpiece in your workspace, NAKANOKUMOs designs bring a timeless elegance to modern living.A Creative Hub in NakanoThe story of NAKANOKUMO is as much about people as it is about craft. Their Tokyo atelier, housed in an 80-year-old restored home, serves as a vibrant hub where artisans from diverse backgrounds gather to collaborate and innovate. This confluence of skills and perspectives results in designs that honor Japanese traditions while pushing the boundaries of what these crafts can achieve.This community-based approach makes NAKANOKUMOs atelier more than just a workspaceits a cultural dialogue, where the past meets the present and artistry shapes the future.Preserving an Endangered ArtEarrings from the Toh () collectionWhile urushi and makie are celebrated for their beauty, they are also under threat. The number of urushi trees has drastically dwindled, and the pool of skilled artisans continues to shrink. NAKANOKUMO is deeply committed to preserving these endangered crafts by sustaining the knowledge, tools, and materials necessary for their survival.Each piece crafted by NAKANOKUMO is a tribute to this legacy. By merging traditional techniques with modern applications, they ensure that these time-honored crafts not only endure but thrive for future generations.Rediscovering Beauty Through CraftBrooch from the Sai () collectionNAKANOKUMOs creations are more than just objectsthey are experiences that invite you to connect with the essence of Japanese artistry. Each piece tells a story of precision, care, and cultural heritage, transforming everyday life into something extraordinary.Whether youre drawn to the tactile smoothness of urushi lacquer or the radiant elegance of makie, every item is a reflection of Japans unparalleled craftsmanship. NAKANOKUMO invites you to explore their collection and discover the timeless beauty of tradition, reimagined.The post NAKANOKUMO: Reviving Japans Timeless Lacquer Craft for the Future first appeared on Yanko Design.