BIO
Born and raised in Tokyo Japan, my early years were enriched with an artistic atmosphere by a family of architects, artists and classical musicians. In a way, I couldn't help becoming a designer. Rather than playing with doll houses, I used to build my own "amusement park" with cardboard and string for my stuffed animals. Yes, I guess I was a bit of a weird child.
After graduating from Art Center College of Design in Pasadena CA with an Industrial Design Degree, I worked for Chrysler as a member of their advanced design team where I established my architectural approach to form and design. In 2006 I was named as one of the top "100 World Recognized Japanese Women" by Newsweek Japan. Since my retirement from auto industry, I've been teaching Industrial design at a design university in San Francisco where I commute weekly from SD to support and lead future designers.
Jewelry making always has been one of my biggest passion. I love creating 3 dimentional sculptural form using various media, such as digital modeling, 3D print and wax carving/casting. I start my creation with developing many idea sketches until I find a strong theme for each piece. Combining my car design background and architectural influence, I'm passionate about creating a unique recognizable style which express my belief in artful simplicity. I hope you enjoy!
Experience:
Instructor
2011 - Current
Academy of Art University
(San Francisco CA)
Senior Designer
1997 - 2009
Chrysler Corporation
(Carlsbad CA / Auburn Hills MI)
Chrysler/Nissan project
2008 - 2009
(Kanagawa JAPAN)
Mercedes Benz
Summer 2008
(Sindelfingen GERMANY)
Education:
BFA Industrial Design
1996
Art Center College of Design
(Pasadena CA)
BFA Sociology
1993
Rikkyo University
(Tokyo JAPAN)
Exchange program
1990 - 1992
Washington & Lee University
(Lexington VA)
Recognition:
Newsweek Japan
2006
"100 World Recognized Japanese Women"
IDSA
2006
International Design Excellence Silver Award
Scholarships
Honda, Ford, Rikkyo University,
Art Center College of Design
Honorble Mention
International Houseware Association
Student Competition
Skills:
Autodesk Alias Studio (CAD),
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator,
Apple iWork, Microsoft Office
Japanese, English
