The store is designed to resemble a traditional Japanese house, with a minimalist aesthetic that reflects the simplicity and elegance of Japanese art.
The Concept Behind PIGMENT TOKYO
At the heart of PIGMENT TOKYO is the concept of “Kokoro,” which roughly translates to “heart” or “spirit” in Japanese. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of cultivating a deep connection with one’s creative self, allowing artists to tap into their inner world and express themselves authentically. The store’s founders aimed to create a space where artists could explore their imagination, experiment with new techniques, and connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for traditional Japanese art.
The Store’s Design and Layout
PIGMENT TOKYO’s interior is designed to evoke the traditional Japanese aesthetic, with a focus on simplicity, natural materials, and subtle color palettes. The store’s layout is carefully curated to facilitate a sense of flow and discovery, with various sections dedicated to different art supplies and materials.
The store is designed to resemble a traditional Japanese garden, with a large wooden door and a tranquil atmosphere.
The Concept Behind PIGMENT TOKYO
PIGMENT TOKYO is more than just a store; it’s an immersive experience that invites customers to explore the world of colors. The concept behind the store is rooted in the idea of color as a universal language that can evoke emotions, convey meaning, and create connections.
Nojo-san, as he is affectionately known, is a master of creating visually stunning displays that showcase the works of the artists who work at the store.
The Concept Behind PIGMENT TOKYO
PIGMENT TOKYO is more than just a store; it’s an art gallery, a community, and a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work. The store’s concept is centered around the idea of “art as a way of life.” This philosophy is reflected in the store’s design, which is meant to evoke a sense of calm and serenity. The store’s interior is designed to resemble a traditional Japanese garden, complete with natural materials, soft lighting, and a peaceful atmosphere. The store’s concept is inspired by the idea that art should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience level. The store’s design is meant to create a sense of community among customers and artists alike.*
The Artists Behind PIGMENT TOKYO
The store is run by a team of emerging artists who work as staff members. These artists are passionate about their work and are dedicated to creating a unique and engaging shopping experience for customers. Some of the artists who work at PIGMENT TOKYO include:
PIGMENT TOKYO is a company that provides a range of services to support artists in their creative process. These services include:
Nojo believes that the pigment industry is ripe for innovation, and that the collaboration between manufacturers and artists will lead to the development of new, sustainable, and environmentally friendly pigments.
The Future of Pigment Tokyo
The concept of Pigment Tokyo is centered around the idea of collaboration between manufacturers and artists to create new, sustainable, and environmentally friendly pigments. This concept has the potential to revolutionize the pigment industry and promote positive evolution.
The Benefits of Collaboration
The Founding of PIGMENT TOKYO
PIGMENT TOKYO was founded in 2005 by Saito, who had a vision to create a space where artists could share their work and connect with others. The company’s name, PIGMENT, is derived from the Latin word for “color,” reflecting its focus on art and creativity.
Saito’s Background and Experience
Saito majored in oil painting at university, honing his skills in traditional techniques and mediums. His experience in the art world has equipped him with a deep understanding of what makes a painting successful, allowing him to provide expert guidance to customers and artists alike.
The Western Painting Section
The Western painting section of PIGMENT TOKYO was established in 2005, shortly after the company’s founding. This section is dedicated to showcasing and selling Western-style paintings, including works by local and international artists. The section is managed by Saito, who is responsible for customer service, as well as planning and managing workshop programs.
Workshop Programs
PIGMENT TOKYO offers a range of workshop programs, designed to help artists improve their skills and connect with others.
The pigment was used in the traditional Japanese art of suminagashi, a technique that involves floating ink on water and allowing it to settle and form patterns.
The Art of Suminagashi: A Symbolic Color
Suminagashi is a traditional Japanese art form that dates back to the 17th century. The word “suminagashi” literally means “floating ink” in Japanese. This art form involves floating ink on water, allowing it to settle and form patterns, and then transferring the ink onto a surface using a tool or a brush. The resulting patterns are unique and often feature intricate designs.
The Symbolism of Gunjō
Gunjō, the symbolic color made from azurite, has a rich history and cultural significance in Japan. The pigment was highly valued for its vibrant blue color and was used in various art forms, including suminagashi. In traditional Japanese art, gunjō was often used to represent the sky or the sea. Its deep blue color was believed to evoke feelings of calmness and serenity.
The Birth of TranTixxii
TranTixxii was born out of a collaborative effort between two Japanese giants, Nippon Steel Corporation and PIGMENT TOKYO. The development of this innovative base material spanned five years, with both companies pooling their expertise to create something truly unique. The result is a material that not only boasts exceptional strength and durability but also produces a wide range of captivating colors through its proprietary patina control technology.
Properties of TranTixxii
Applications of TranTixxii
TranTixxii has a wide range of potential applications across various industries. Some of the most promising uses include:
This liquid is then applied to the painting surface using a brush.
The Origins of Nikawa
Nikawa has a long history in Japan, dating back to the 8th century. It was initially used as a writing tool, but later became a key component in Japanese painting. The use of nikawa in painting is believed to have originated from the Chinese art of calligraphy, where ink was used to create intricate designs.
The Composition of Nikawa
Nikawa is composed of various animal skins and bones, which are mixed with other substances to create a range of colors. The most common components are:
Types of Brushes Used in Japanese Painting
Japanese painting employs a wide range of brushes, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Here are some of the most common types of brushes used in Japanese painting:
The ink was used for calligraphy and painting, and was highly valued for its quality and durability.
The History of Ink
Origins in Ancient China
Ink has a rich history that dates back thousands of years to ancient China. The earliest recorded use of ink was during the Shang Dynasty (16th-11th centuries BCE), where it was used for writing on silk and bamboo. The ink was made from soot, animal fat, and plant-based dyes. Over time, the recipe for ink evolved, and by the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE), ink was made from a mixture of soot, gum arabic, and water.
Spread to Japan
Ink was introduced to Japan around the second century CE, where it became an essential tool for calligraphy and painting. The Japanese developed their own unique style of ink, known as sumi, which was made from a mixture of soot, water, and other ingredients. The rōkō grade of Duan inkstones, made of fine stone quarried from Zhaoqing, Guangdong Province, China, is said to be the finest and was highly valued for its quality and durability.
