THE ASIALINK VISUAL ARTS RESIDENCIES IN ASIA GRANT
THE IAN POTTER CULTURAL TRUST GRANT
HERMANNS IMPORTS PATRONAGE
MRS PAULINE GANDEL PATRONAGE
LESLEY KEHOE GALLERIES

In 2009, I propose to undertake a professional residency with lacquer master Kitamura Tatsuo of the Kitamura Koubou in Wajima - Japan to augment previous fieldwork research on lacquering techniques in Vietnam and Japan. In 2007 I self-funded a brief residency at the Kitamura Koubou studio to study basic Japanese lacquering techniques under Mr Tatsuo.  My expression of a strong commitment to develop Japanese lacquering skills resulted in an invitation from the Kitamura Koubou studio to host my residency for further training and mentorship by Mr Tatsuo.

The techniques of lacquer are not widely understood, taught or practiced outside of Japan. My aim is to continue to develop the lacquer techniques and its application to the designs and objects I create. The mastering of Japanese lacquer represents the pinnacle of the art form, applying the unique material and techniques to a three-dimensional surface.

In 2009, I returned to Japan. The residency was for a period of 2 years learning and working with Mr Tatsuo and his professional artistic staff. There I developed and refined my knowledge of lacquer tools, materials and importantly learning various lacquer techniques of makie. The success of this professional practice was made possible through support from: The Ian Potter Cultural Trust, Asialink, Mrs Pauline Gandel and Lesley Kehoe.