Chikuunsai IV Tanabe started learning bamboo art from his father when he was a child. He graduated first from the fine art department of Osaka City Crafts High School, and later from the Sculpture Department of Tokyo Art University. After developing his skills as an apprentice for two years in Beppu City, Chikuunsai IV Tanabe went back to Sakai City and learned bamboo art from his father. He practiced a traditional style of bamboo art and, while utilizing the skills of the previous Chikuunsai generations, he now makes sculptures in his own original style. Chikuunsai IV Tanabe makes two kinds of works. One is the traditional basket, the techniques of which have passed from generation to generation. The other is purely sculptural and considered highly innovative in Japan today. His signature is organic forms made with tiger bamboo, black bamboo and other natural materials.
Chikuunsai IV Tanabe started learning bamboo art from his father when he was a child. He graduated first from the fine art department of Osaka City Crafts High School, and later from the Sculpture Department of Tokyo Art University. After developing his skills as an apprentice for two years in Beppu City, Chikuunsai IV Tanabe went back to Sakai City and learned bamboo art from his father. He practiced a traditional style of bamboo art and, while utilizing the skills of the previous Chikuunsai generations, he now makes sculptures in his own original style. Chikuunsai IV Tanabe makes two kinds of works. One is the traditional basket, the techniques of which have passed from generation to generation. The other is purely sculptural and considered highly innovative in Japan today. His signature is organic forms made with tiger bamboo, black bamboo and other natural materials.