The leading artisans in natural lye fermentation
As science progresses, it’s logical for processing and production times to be shortened. However, a society of convenience also means some things that should be cherished could inadvertently be lost. For example, traditional techniques, nature, and skills only a “human hand” can provide. Our artisans, famed for their indigo, pour their hearts and souls into their creations without holding back in order to produce only the best. From the fruits of their labour, Ai+ was born.
Holder of National Intangible Cultural Assets in technical craft
19th generation artisan
Indigo master: Akihito Satō
Akihito inherited the techniques for producing sukumo raw indigo dye and natural lye fermentation and currently holds official national recognition as Japan’s top artisan in aizome. Born to the 18th generation indigo master of the Satō Awa-ai Indigo Production House, Akihito studied indigo production under his grandfather and now leads as the 19th generation. He is currently a Holder of Intangible Cultural Assets in Awa-ai production and technical crafts and continues to produce aizome dyes using only traditional methods passed down from 600 years ago.
20th generation artisan
Indigo master: Yoshiaki Satō
20th generation to the Satō Awa-ai Indigo Production House, Yoshiaki inherited the traditional technique for making natural sukumo raw indigo dye, which was passed down since the Edo period, and continues to keep this technique alive. It was decided whilst in junior high school that he would continue the family business and learn the trade by watching his father (Akihito Satō). In his 20s, Yoshiaki utilised his experience in creating aizome products and now liaises with aizome creators nationwide, keeping his eye on the craft and its situation in order to maintain proper inheritance of the craft, facing challenges head-on to carry on the tradition.
Beneficiary to the technique of
natural lye fermented true aizome
Aizome master: Hidenori Nakanishi
Kyoto-born Hidenori learned the aizome craft whilst assisting with the family-run aizome production business. Whilst he trained under Akihito Satō (Holder of Intangible Cultural Assets in Awa-ai production and technical crafts), Hidenori learned both the creation of the sukumo raw indigo dye and the natural lye fermentation process that prepares the dye for usage. He continues his conservation efforts of true aizome as did his predecessors and produces pieces that match current times.
Hidenori also received the Mayoral Award at the 41st Kyoto Kogei Association exhibition.
