This workshop offers an introduction to the techniques of shaping gold leaf produced exclusively in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan (leaf with a thickness of 1/10,000 mm). Participants will learn to handle this delicate material, master traditional tools, and acquire the precise movements that make its application so beautiful.

Upon completion of the training, the trainee will be able to:

• Handle gold leaf
• Understand the differences in manufacturing and alloy compositions
• Apply gold leaf flakes (Kirimawashi)
• Apply these flakes in fine grooves
• Produce decorative "sandy" effects
• Apply gold leaf to flat surfaces
• Apply gold leaf to three-dimensional objects
• Use gold leaf as a material for artistic expression

Gold leaf, incredibly thin (1/10,000 mm), is applied with extreme precision to modulate light and texture. This ancient and demanding technique has graced temples, shrines, and prestigious monuments throughout Japan and the world.

This unique workshop is led by a Japanese expert from Hakuza, the iconic gold leaf workshop, and one of Japan's leading specialists. Under his guidance, participants will learn to work with this delicate material, using traditional tools such as bamboo sticks, brushes, and adhesives, and achieving brilliant surfaces with subtle nuances, revealing the unique character of each creation.

From full application to decorative or partial decoration, every step is taught to allow participants to create their own works and experience the magic of the surface illuminating beneath their fingers. Used in fields as diverse as crafts, contemporary art, temple furnishings, and folding screens, this technique is sometimes described as "the art of applying light."

Combining precision, sensitivity, and creativity, this training offers a complete immersion in the fascinating world of gold leaf, alongside a renowned Japanese artisan.

Schedule

Day 1

Gold Leaf Fundamentals and Preparation

Morning

• Introduction and Demonstration
• History of Japanese Gold Leaf, Production Areas, and Manufacturing Processes
• Uses in Crafts, Architecture, Art…
• Types of Metallic Leaf
• Role of Papers, Bamboo Sticks, Tools, and Adhesives
• Workstation Preparation (Humidity Management, Static Electricity…)

• Learning Basic Techniques: Holding, Breathing, Anticipating Movement
• Learning Tear-Free Handling
• Learning Paper Glide and Using Sticks
• Practices on Small Pieces panels

Day 2

• Basic Techniques

Morning

• Preparing the surface (wood, Japanese paper, resin, etc.)
• Applying the base coat and drying
• Checking and sanding

Afternoon

• Preparing and applying the adhesive
• Managing seams
• Full sheet application (one or more sheets)

Day 3

• Advanced Techniques and Decorative Expression

Morning

• Kirimawashi Technique (cut sheet)

Afternoon

• Technique of Kirimawashi
• Application in fine grooves

Day 4

• Advanced techniques and decorative expression

Morning

• Learning "sandy" effects

Afternoon

• Application on flat surfaces
• Substrate preparation
• Application and decorative treatment
• Personalized support (matching, gloss adjustment, etc.)

Day 5

• Advanced techniques on three-dimensional surfaces

Morning

• Application on three-dimensional surfaces
• Smoothing, surface protection (varnishing, sealing)
• Repairing chips and Irregularities

Afternoon

• Presentation of work
• Discussion and feedback from the trainer
• Workshop cleanup

Shinichi Maruoka

Originally from Mie Prefecture, Shinichi Maruoka graduated from Kanazawa College of Art, where he specialized in craftsmanship. He joined Hakuza, the iconic Japanese gold leaf workshop, where he has worked for eighteen years. Now Creative Director and head of the workshop, he embodies the company's philosophy: to reveal the intrinsic power and beauty of gold leaf, while mastering the precision of its application on each object.

Shinichi Maruoka doesn't limit himself to traditional techniques: he sometimes shapes the gold leaf himself to fully exploit its potential and latent energy. Every day, he refines his expertise, blending artisanal rigor and creativity to create pieces where meticulousness and expressiveness converge.

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Materials provided
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop sessions
• Active participation and experimentation by participants are encouraged

• Group and individualized monitoring of work, regular check-ins
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Group presentation
• Attendance sheet for each half-day
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa