“I like to create innovative conceptual works that respect the natural qualities of the material. I explore the Shippi technique from the Asuka period in Japan. I use genuine leather in my lacquer pieces because it offers elasticity. First, a piece of leather is stretched over a mold so I can create a form to express my concept. Then, at least five coats of lacquer are applied to the leather to harden it. The surface is then mounted with linen. Additional coats of lacquer are applied for added strength and thickness.” – Wei Nan