Oki Yasunobu (沖 泰宣) is a renowned Kokeshi Artist. He was born in 1955 in Fukuoka Prefecture. Oki's path to artistry was shaped by both formal education and familial mentorship in the world of kokeshi-making. He graduated from the Sōkei Academy of Fine Arts and Design, where he honed his skills in design and sculpture, laying the foundation for his innovative approach to Kokeshi Art.
In 1982, Oki became a pupil of the legendary kokeshi master Sekiguchi Sansaku (1925–2002). Under Sansaku's guidance, Oki began producing his own creative kokeshi, characterized by elegant forms, vibrant kimono patterns inspired by nature (such as morning glories or seasonal motifs), and a whimsical touch—evident in pieces like his unique "Neko" (cat) kokeshi, where feline features merge seamlessly with human-like doll aesthetics.
Today, Oki collaborates with his wife, Oki Izumi (Sansaku's daughter and a kokeshi artist in her own right), to maintain the Sekiguchi Sansaku Kokeshi Museum in Shibukawa, Gunma Prefecture, preserving the master's legacy while showcasing their contemporary works.
Oki's career is marked by consistent excellence and recognition within Japan's kokeshi community. He joined the Japan Kokeshi Crafts Association in 1982, the same year he started his apprenticeship. His dolls have garnered numerous accolades at the prestigious National Kokeshi Contest, including:
- 1984: Governor of Gunma Prize
- 1985: Governor of Miyagi Prize
- 1988: Minister of Education, Culture, and Science Prize
- 1993: Minister of Transport Prize
- 2002: Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Prize
- 2014: Prime Minister Award (a pinnacle honor echoing his mentor's achievements)
These awards highlight Oki's ability to infuse traditional techniques—such as hand-carving from woods like mizunara oak and applying layered paints—with modern flair, often drawing on themes of folklore, animals, and floral elegance. His works are celebrated for their balance of simplicity and detail, making them sought-after collectibles that bridge Japan's artisanal past and present.
Based in Gunma, Oki continues to create and exhibit, contributing to the global appreciation of kokeshi through sales and workshops. His dolls not only adorn homes but also embody a playful spirit, inviting viewers to rediscover joy in everyday whimsy. As a steward of Sansaku's tradition, Oki Yasunobu ensures that creative kokeshi remains a vibrant, evolving art form.
