OKAMOTO Yoshiko

Born in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Okamoto Yoshiko works in metal using heat-welding and forging techniques to construct complex vessels and boxes. Before turning to metalwork, she was active as a book illustrator and author. After graduating from Yamaguchi College of Arts in 1997, she apprenticed under Yamamoto Akira, a Living National Treasure known for his work in traditional metalcraft. Under his guidance, Okamoto acquired advanced methods of metal joining and inlay that remain central to her practice. Her work is characterized by the use of hagiawase, a technique in which separately prepared metal components are welded together under heat and then forged into a unified form. Okamoto also employs kiribame-zogan (cut-out inlay), inserting precisely cut metal elements into prepared openings, producing subtle variations in colour and material across the surface, rather than relying on applied decoration. Okamoto is a member of the Japan Kogei Association. Her work has been repeatedly selected for the Japan Traditional Kogei Exhibition and the Japan Metalwork Exhibition, and is held in the collection of the Ise Foundation.