Yoshiki Uchida

The founder of Kanamono Art, Yoshiki Uchida works in the Japanese form of kanamono–translated as hardware–and includes forty-eight types of objects, such as pliers, screws, and many other similar items. With these materials, he constructs puzzle-like sculptures derived primarily from the animal kingdom. His work is large, looming, and grows less discernable the closer one gets, leaving the viewer with a sense of discomfort from the jarring difference of perception.

During his childhood, his father’s company was a supplier of metal hardware for the construction industry. As a result, the artist grew familiar with different kinds of kanamono (metal objects). As a boy, he struggled with conventional studies. Rather than using regular textbooks, he preferred learning from illustrated books about animals and insects. He was often out catching loaches and insects in the river, while his peers were studying for university entrance exams. Recently, Kanamono Art has embraced traditional Japanese technology to preserve the endangered skills of artisans. My goal is to raise awareness about these exceptional crafts and pass them on to future generations through various approaches. Creating opportunities for people to learn about and take action in supporting these artisans would bring immense satisfaction.

Volatile_1, 2023

Washi (Japanese paper) & foil

43”

Fake the Spirit, 2023

Washi (Japanese paper) & foil

30” x 41”

Unstable, 2023

Washi (Japanese paper) & foil

38” x 26”

Volatile_2, 2023

Washi (Japanese paper) & foil

43” x 30”