ALEXCIOUS

Born in 1976, Toru Horiguchi is the 3rd generation exponent of HORIGUCHI EDO-KIRIKO. In 2008, in a situation reminiscent of Kabuki tradition, Horiguchi officially inherited the succession name 'Shuseki' from his mentor, Tomio Suda. Succession names, most often those of the exponent's father, grandfather, or teacher, are passed down between generations of lineages, and hold great honor and importance. The new possessor of each name must live up to these expectations; there is the feeling almost of the exponent not only taking a name, but embodying the spirit, style, and skill of each exponent to previously hold that name.

EDO-KIRIKO emerged in an era of peace and stability during which a sense of playfulness developed in many aspects of life in Japan. Despite still being considered a luxury item at the time, and somewhat fragile compared to other materials, EDO-KIRIKO glassware was used by people on a daily basis. This can be attributed partly to this sense of fun that was, and still is, incorporated into every piece. Indeed, Horiguchi says that when he thinks deeply or too seriously about things his creative instincts are stifled, adding that the inspiration for his pieces comes most often from daily life and his surroundings.

Feeling that the best craftsmen should be continuously mindful of both the beauty and the practicality of their creations, Horiguchi always strives to attain the perfect balance. When creating EDO-KIRIKO, he continually focuses on the users' perception of the piece. For instance, when taking a sip from an EDO-KIRIKO glass, the refraction of light passing through it changes dramatically as it is lifted and tipped to the mouth. He is concerned not only with the aesthetic appearance of the finished item, but also how it's going to feel in the hand. Constantly aware of these points, Horiguchi strives to produce pieces that look and feel great from all angles.

In recognition of his outstanding skill and achievement, in 2010 the governing body of EDO-KIRIKO, The Association of Glass Art Studies Japan, awarded Horiguchi its highest possible accolade for his work 'Tokyo Sky Tree.'

Hobbies: Handicrafts Playing with his children Parallel parking