Yoshio Nishihata received the Special Award at the 5th Japan Cultural Grand Prix

Yoshio Nishihata, a woodworking and lacquer artist, has received the Special Award at the 5th Japan Cultural Grand Prix.


◾️ Comments from the judges :<br>The craftsmanship of this woodcarver is of the highest quality. The attention to detail in the design is reflected in the tone it produces, and this entry will likely serve as a benchmark for future drum body makers, raising the bar for the manufacture of musical instruments using traditional techniques.
This piece is not merely an imitation of form, but rather a work that sheds light on the future of traditional performing arts through its attention to the sound.

Genjiro Okura (16th Head of the Okura School of Noh Kotsuzumi)



◾️ Comment from Yoshio Nishihata on receiving the award
I am truly grateful for receiving the Japanese Culture Grand Prix Special Award.
When I first started making the small drum barrel, I couldn't get a good sound and there were many things I didn't understand, but with the guidance of many people and through trial and error I was finally able to complete it.
Although the sound quality of our instruments is still far from that of the famous old instruments, we will continue our research and production, encouraged by this award.
We would appreciate your continued guidance and support.
Thank you very much.

[List of winners of the 5th Japan Cultural Grand Prix]
https://jcpp.jp/2025award/

To celebrate this award, Nishibata's works are currently on display at Ginza Ippodo.
2025.11/28(Fri) - 12/7(Sun) "Yoshio Nishibata's Woodwork"
https://ginza.ippodogallery.com/blogs/current-exhibition/Yoshio Nishihata Exhibition 202511
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