Sakurako Matsushima

Born in Tokyo in 1965, Matsushima graduated from the Tokyo University of the Arts with a focus on lacquer arts. Since her university graduation project, she has been deeply engaged in body jewelry and has since expanded her creative scope to include wall installations and objects. Her works are characterized by curving forms inspired by elements of the cosmos and nature. Utilizing a traditional technique known as kanshitsu (dry lacquer), she creates dynamic and freeform shapes using thin boards made from layers of hemp cloth coated in lacquer. While dedicating herself to creating body jewelry that reflects the spirit of “adorning the body,” she also travels across East and Southeast Asia in search of undiscovered lacquer cultures, continuing her exploration of this ancient art form.