Biography

Katsura Funakoshi was a prominent Japanese sculptor born on May 25, 1951. He was known for his distinctive approach to sculpture, primarily working with camphor wood. Funakoshi's sculptures often depicted human figures from the waist up, characterized by their poetic expression and the visible grain of the wood, which he skillfully incorporated into his designs. His technique involved leaving parts of the sculpture, particularly the crown of the head, unpainted, which added a unique texture and depth to his work. Funakoshi's artistic journey was influenced by his father, Yasutake Funakoshi, who was also a sculptor. He honed his skills at the Tokyo University of the Arts and the University of Fine Arts and Music. Over his career, Funakoshi's work gained international recognition, with exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the Venice Biennale, São Paulo Biennale, Documenta IX, and the Shanghai Biennale. His sculptures are part of collections in several art museums across Japan and internationally. Katsura Funakoshi passed away on March 29, 2024, at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of innovative and evocative sculptures that continue to be celebrated by art collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.