Saito Kiyoshi | 斎藤きよし

b.1948 Isesaki, Gunma Prefecture

About👤

Saito Kiyoshi resides in Shinzato-machi, Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, and began his journey in Kokeshi-making under the guidance of Master Kobayashi Inosuke in 1981. His work is distinguished by its deliberately rough, unpolished finish, embracing traditional carving techniques that emphasize the tactile authenticity of handmade craft.

Saito-san’s Kokeshi often depict Geishas, folktale characters, babysitters, and a wide array of figures inspired by local customs and seasonal life. Each piece carries a rustic charm that reflects both the artisan’s personal style and a reverence for regional storytelling.

Awards🏅

1988 All Japan Kokeshi Competition; Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award
1989 All Japan Kokeshi Competition; Director General of the Forestry Agency Award for "Shiosai"
1989 National Modern Kokeshi Exhibition; Minister of Education Encouragement Award
1990 All Japan Kokeshi Competition; Minister of International Trade and Industry
1998 All Japan Kokeshi Competition; Minister of Transport Award
2009 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Prime Minister Award for "Mori no Hibiki"
2010 Award at the All Japan Kokeshi Competition; Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
2017 All Gunma Modern Kokeshi Competition; Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Award

Exhibitions | Memberships 🖼️

Member of the Japan Kokeshi Crafts Association.

Other📑

Sources

1) Shibukawa City & Shibukawa City Board of Education. (2024). National Creative Kokeshi Art Exhibition in Shibukawa 30th anniversary commemorative magazine: Creative Kokeshi and its artists. Lifelong Learning Division, Shibukawa City Board of Education.

2) Photo: Creative Kokeshi Doll Exhibition in Shibukawa City Magazine, Kokeshi Art 2024, 30th Anniversary.

3) Japan Kokeshi Crafts Association. (2024). 斎藤　きよし | 日本こけし工芸会. 日本こけし工芸会. https://kokeshi.net/kougeikai/gallery/斎藤%e3%80%80きよし accessed on 07/01/2025