The third generation of the Shimode family MAKIE workshop, which is granted the honor to supply MAKIE to imperial ceremonies. He also works to restore historical artifacts, making use of his broad knowledge and expertise. He has been actively engaged in production activities as a member of Nitten art society, Japan’s largest art organization. In 2002, he began experimental joint production of furniture featuring MAKIE with interior designer Hisanobu Tsujimura. Shimode, also instructer at Traditional Arts School of Kyoto, is eager to raise talents and promote not only lacquerware but traditional arts and crafts in general through his writings and lectures.
The program introduces MAKIE on the door of Shotendon Hall at Kyoto’s Rokuharamitsuji temple, which had long been prohibited from public viewing.

Inheritor of renowned gold-carving workshop Chikueido established in the early 1600Õs. The third to succeed to the familyÕs artist name "Chikueido Eishin" granted by the late Prince Arisugawa. The program focuses on his outstanding metal carving technique, and unique but traditional work of art that matches modern-day needs.

One of the finest artists of Kyoto-style woodwork, which makes full use of such techniques as fitting, carving, bending, hollowing and shaving. He also enjoys cross-industry reputation and was a featured artist at exhibition "Japan Design Identity" during the 2002 Osaka Designers Week. The program introduces his creative technique that attracts a great deal of attention from the modern design field, including collaboration work with products designer Toshiyuki Kita and exhibits at Milano Salone (Salone Internazionale del Mobile) in 2003.

The fourth generation of the Gomei gold-leaf art workshop. Production of his workshop is most notably represented by Buddha statues and pedestals, but Itsuaki is also eagerly involved in production of new craftwork, such as accessories, using his celebrated gold-leaf skills. He has widened his vision through collaboration with Tiffany & Co. following the visit by Tiffany jewelry designer Elsa Peretti. The bag featuring ItsuakiÕs fine techniques of KyotoÕs traditional gold-leaf work is exclusively sold at TiffanyÕs main store in New York. He continues production of original accessories using the techniques exploited in the Tiffany work and eagerly challenges new fields.

Trained as a Buddha statue carver, sculptor and a lacquerware artist. At his workshop, he enthusiastically trains young talents, including students at Traditional Arts School of Kyoto. Sudo eloquently discusses the value and possibility of his woodwork in the program. He is eager to face new challenges at the next MIA (Mostra dellÕArredamento, or International Furniture Exhibition) following his exhibits at MIA held in the autumn of 2002 in Monza, Italy.