Ishizu Gyokusen : A Living National Treasure.
In 1927, we started create Japanese Kogaku masks in the oldest city Nara where Japanese culture born.
We want you to touch traditional Japanese masks, and hope you enjoy Japanese mask’s beauty.
In 1927, We started create Japanese masks in Nara, Because of the highest Buddist Priest who was in Toudaiji that is the oldest temple in Japan called to restore Japanese old masks.
And he gave the name "Gyokusen" who is Japanese mask master.
In 1950, we restore 13 masks which was the oldest in Japan for Nara museum.
Now is the third Gyokusen.
We want you to touch traditional Japanese masks, and hope you enjoy Japanese mask’s beauty.
In 1927, We started create Japanese masks in Nara, Because of the highest Buddist Priest who was in Toudaiji that is the oldest temple in Japan called to restore Japanese old masks.
And he gave the name "Gyokusen" who is Japanese mask master.
In 1950, we restore 13 masks which was the oldest in Japan for Nara museum.
Now is the third Gyokusen.
The specialty Kogaku masks. Nara is one of the oldest cities in Japan in which Japanese culture was founded. When you step aside into a little footpath from the main streets, it is very quiet. The creator of these masks is Gyokusen Ishizu. He lives and work in such a place with the Holy Spirits of Old Nara. Gyokusen Ishizu was born in mask creator’s family. Now he is in the third generation. In his studio, there are many works of the first Gyokusen. “Mask is like mirror which reflects your mind.”
I was born in a family which created Japanese traditional masks.
I saw my mother as the master of Kogaku masks. I thought of becoming the master myself.
She didn’t teach in practice, but took me to the studio since I was a baby.
Now I think that experience was the hardest training in my childhood.
When I create masks, I feel like someone else has come inside of me.
There is no notion time, just the relationship between the mask and I.
Sometimes I start working in the midnight, finishing at 2 or 3 o’clock, and looking like a crazy man.
What is it to create a mask in my life?
Before I tell you the answer, let me talk about what is a mask.
A Kogaku mask is not only a mask master’s work, but the mirror of your mind.
When you have a sad face, the mask will look the same.
When you are looking forward to something, the mask will make an encouraging face to you.
It is often said that the creator pours in his feelings in the mask, but it’s not true.
You are the one to attach feelings to it.
When you obtain these masks and look at it, and then place it in your house, it will live with you and share your moments of joy and sadness.
I saw my mother as the master of Kogaku masks. I thought of becoming the master myself.
She didn’t teach in practice, but took me to the studio since I was a baby.
Now I think that experience was the hardest training in my childhood.
When I create masks, I feel like someone else has come inside of me.
There is no notion time, just the relationship between the mask and I.
Sometimes I start working in the midnight, finishing at 2 or 3 o’clock, and looking like a crazy man.
What is it to create a mask in my life?
Before I tell you the answer, let me talk about what is a mask.
A Kogaku mask is not only a mask master’s work, but the mirror of your mind.
When you have a sad face, the mask will look the same.
When you are looking forward to something, the mask will make an encouraging face to you.
It is often said that the creator pours in his feelings in the mask, but it’s not true.
You are the one to attach feelings to it.
When you obtain these masks and look at it, and then place it in your house, it will live with you and share your moments of joy and sadness.
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