When you first walk into Koji Orii's atelier, one of Japan's Master Metal-Coloring artists,  you might be struck by the authentic feel and energy of "artists at work".  A hot fire pops and crackles in the corner, buckets of "secret" conconctions used in the coloring process are lined up nearby.  Tools and implements are scattered, and a barn-like studio door opens wide to a view of ricefields beyond.

In that small lively studio, young metal-coloring artists apprentice learning traditional and modern skills. 

In that small workshop, the community's school children and adults gather, and experience the traditional craft of metal coloring. 

And in that small workshop, Mr. Orii carries on family traditions while also adding to the family porfolio a variety of new and innovative works: vases, jewelry, coasters and other home decor objects all handcrafted with precision and care.

So explore Master Orii's work and step in the studio! : )