Beautiful Japanese inkstones that bring quiet moments

The organically curved edges represent the majestic ridgelines of the earth.
The way the light reflects on the smooth black world is like the landscape of the earth where the sun rises and sets again.
It appears right before your eyes as a deep shape.
When I look at the works, I feel as if I am standing in some kind of poetic, tranquil world.

Tatsunori Nagurais an artist who reconsiders the significance of inkstones in modern times and explores new roles for them. Therefore, the difference between the inkstones and the inkstones that we are accustomed to seeing is clearly visible in their form.

Nagura was born into a family that has been making inkstones for 120 years.
Inheriting the will of generations who have challenged themselves to renew tradition, he is also facing two challenges.

One of these is the historical fact that many Japanese inkstones have not been considered works of art.
Although the movement to give artistic value to Japanese inkstones itself began about half a century ago, this activity is still not widely known.

Inkstones have undergone a wide variety of changes in form since ancient times, and there are forms and cultures in which the place where ink is applied is called ``land'' or ``hill'', and the place where water accumulates is called ``sea'' or ``pond.''
Our ancestors also likened the patterns appearing on stones to clouds and stars.
If you think about it, stones are the feet we stand on, and they are also the stars that twinkle in the night sky.
People have used inkstones as small as the palm of their hands to see the world and express their thoughts.

The beautiful scenery associated with Nagura's inkstones is based on this form and culture.
Based on his own activities as a sculptor, he gives Japanese inkstones a universal beauty that can withstand modern appreciation.

Another issue that Nagura is tackling is the end of inkstones as a ``use'' due to changes in lifestyle.
Many of us living in modern times no longer use brushes to write in our daily lives.
Therefore, Nagura liberates the inkstone from the role of "stationery" as an everyday tool and expands its role.

Today's world is full of things and information.
What do people need in order to live a truly fulfilling life without losing sight of what is important? Isn't it time to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and face yourself?

Rub ink, feel the scent and sound, and interact with the material called stone.
The fact that inkstone involves the physical act of ``inking'';
And precisely because writing involves the most direct expression of thought unique to humans, inkstones should have an aptitude for calming the mind and organizing thoughts.

A moment away from the hectic pace of daily life and a moment of ``tranquility'' with just yourself.
The space to imagine a world beyond what is visible is what
Keep your mind healthy and creative.

Nagura's inkstones are simple.
However, behind that lies something that needs to be eloquently expressed.
This is because it reflects the true image of an artist who continues to think of ways to open up new ways while inheriting the culture of inkstones, which have a daunting history.

Nagura continues to explore the role of modern inkstones as works of art that serve a living purpose.

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