The Artist
A journey through tradition.
Mexican spirits. Japanese precision. One vision.
A Journey in Craft
Born into a family of academics in Germany, Asaya initially followed a conventional path, studying Physics at university. Yet it was not equations, but woodcarving that ultimately called him. After studying woodcarving on his own and feeling confined in his opportunities, he left Germany to learn directly from traditional craftsmen worldwide.
One year capentry in Sweden, then one year of woodcarving under local artisans in Mexico, and since January 2024, he has been living in Inami, Japan — the center of traditional Japanese Woodcarving. His journey reflects a deep commitment to tradition, craftsmanship, and artistic excellence.
From Physics scholar to dedicated artisan, Asaya has committed his life to honoring and preserving the stories and techniques of ancient craftsmanship across continents. Each work reflects a moment of this journey — combining tradition with his own heritage and understanding.
Selected Works
Oaxaca, Mexico · 2023
Carved from Mexican Copal wood and painted in acrylic, this piece was created in the traditional style of Alebrijes — spirit animals originating from the woodcarving town San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca. A tribute to Mexico's craft heritage.
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Cross-Cultural · 2023
Following an interest in ancient legends and using techniques learned in Mexico, this work depicts the Egyptian (Kemetic) Sungod Ra. Asaya drew directly from ancient hieroglyphic texts that tell the story of Ra's creation, painting these sacred symbols onto the figure's surface as both ornament and narrative.
Inami, Japan · 2024
Created under the guidance of Master Tsuchida, this dragon is one of Asaya's first works completed in Inami, Japan. Carved from Japanese camphor wood, it follows the traditional style of Ranma — ornate transom panels placed above doorways to allow light and air to pass between rooms.
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Inami, Japan · 2024
Beyond studying the traditional Ranma style, Asaya was also taught the art of Japanese Buddhist sculpture. This representation of Amida Nyorai, the Buddha of Infinite Light, was carved under the guidance of Master Ishihara Yoshisada — embodying centuries of spiritual craftsmanship.
Award-Winning · 2024
While learning traditional Japanese woodcarving, Master Taniguchi encouraged Asaya to explore his own artistic voice. Inspired by his physics background, Asaya created "Opening Up" — a mechanical sculpture where a bird's wings unfold to reveal an egg-shaped jewelry box. Activated by a discreet lever, combining precision engineering with poetic design.
Selected and awarded at the Ecchu Art Exhibition, Toyama, Japan 2024.
Major Commission · 2024/2025
Asaya's most ambitious commission to date: combining traditional Japanese woodcarving techniques with the European concept of chess. Leading a team of Japanese artisans, Asaya brought this vision to life with precision, respect for tradition, and contemporary artistic insight.
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Commission · 2025
A commission for a European client, this dragon relief carving serves as an incense stick holder. Carved from Japanese nutmeg-yew wood, it combines the client's imagination with the Japanese woodcarving tradition as practiced in Inami.
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