AOYAMA Saburo

Born 1951 in Toyama Prefecture, where he lives and works In 1967, Aoyama began studying under sculptor Morita Seiichi, a Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) association member known for his mastery of Inami carving. Aoyama was first selected for the 6th Nitten exhibition in 1974 and the 9th Niccho sculpture exhibition in 1979, and has continued to exhibit at both ever since. He has also taken part in other exhibitions, cultural exchange programs, and workshops both in Japan and abroad. Among his many accolades, his work Earth won a special prize at the 27th Nitten in 1995. Aoyama has played an active role in promoting sculpture in Japan, serving as a juror for the Nitten, Niccho, and the Toyama Prefecture Art Exhibition. In addition to making traditional tea ceremony utensils, ornaments, and Buddhist statues using Tonami and Inami carving techniques, he also produces original models for cast bronze statues.