Kumiko_Shirahama_Bio

Kumiko Shirahama

白浜久美子

Artisan Kumiko Shirahama
Female artisan born in 1952 in Honbetsu (Tokachi), Hokkaido.
Master: Yamazaki Yuko

Shirahama-sensei is a renowned doll artist, known for her creations that evoke a sense of “furusato”, warmth and nostalgia for one's hometown. Drawing inspiration from traditional doll-making techniques passed down through generations, she has developed her own unique style, based upon her life in Hokkaido, a region known for its breathtaking mountains, vast wetlands, stunning lakes, rivers, and forests. Shirahama-sensei infuses her works with picturesque outdoor scenes, capturing the essence of nature.

Awards

2009 National Modern Kokeshi Exhibition Newcomer's Award
2010 National Modern Kokeshi Exhibition Tokyo Shinbun's Award
2012 National Modern Kokeshi Exhibition Japan Kokeshi Association's Award
2014 All Japan Kokeshi Contest Maebashi Mayor's Award
2015 National Modern Kokeshi Exhibition Jury’s Special Award
2016 National Modern Kokeshi Exhibition Annual Grand Prize
2017 National Modern Kokeshi Exhibition Jury’s Special Award
2024 All Japan Kokeshi Contest Mayor of Odawara Hakone Chamber of Commerce and Industry Award