Yiyan Li
2013 Graduated from the Central Academy of Fine Arts in China, majoring in Home Product Design
2015 Exchange program in the Department of Cultural Property Conservation, Oil Painting Conservation Laboratory at the Tokyo University of the Arts Graduate School of Fine Arts
2019 Completed the Master's program in Arts and Culture at the Graduate School of Art and Culture, University of Toyama
2024 Completed the Doctoral Program in Art and Craft at Kanazawa College of Art, earning a Ph.D.
Entered the Kanazawa Utatsuyama Craft Workshop.
I have long been fascinated by the literary approach to the designs depicted on traditional Japanese lacquer boxes and the meanings behind them. However, in modern society, this tradition is in decline. I aim to address this situation and continue the classical tradition in a new form through my creative activities.
The subject matter I have chosen is not classical themes like The Tale of Genji or The Tales of Ise, but rather I draw inspiration from the literary works of Junichiro Tanizaki. Through this, I strive to create new designs rooted in an ancient lineage, bridging modern literature and the art of lacquerware.
Ishikawa Prefecture is a region rich in natural environments and historical background, known as a major center for traditional crafts. In particular, the lacquerware industry thrives, with Wajima-nuri, Yamanaka lacquerware, and Kanazawa lacquerware being three of Japan's most prominent production areas.
These regions are well-suited for lacquerware production, thanks to the trees that provide the raw materials for lacquer and the humid climate. Skilled craftsmen have passed down and developed their techniques over generations. Furthermore, Ishikawa boasts the highest number of Living National Treasures in the craft field in Japan, highlighting how deeply tradition and craftsmanship are rooted in the region.
November 2020 Selected for the International Urushi Exhibition Ishikawa 2020
2021 Co-translation and publication of The Cultural History of Japanese Lacquer (Original title: Urushi no Bunkashi).
February 2023 KANABI Creative Award 2022
August 2023 3rd Japan Cultural Grand Prix - Student Award
January 2023 Selected for the 40th Japan Traditional Lacquerware Exhibition
November 2023 Selected for the International Urushi Exhibition Ishikawa 2023
May 2024 Selected for the 64th Ishikawa Traditional Craft Exhibition
June 2024 Kanazawa City Mayor’s Award at the 47th Kanazawa Lacquerware Exhibition