In Search of Sleeping Gold: Layered Aromas, Two Sea Breezes
Introducing the fourth installment in the limited “Artist Edition” series, inspired by the Japanese philosophy of the Five Elements.
The “Artist Edition” is a special series that expresses the brand through the power of art, with each edition themed around the “Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water” of the Five Elements deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
For this release, “Metal (Gon),” we welcome artist Keiko Yuasa, who has uniquely depicted the element of “Metal.” Ms. Yuasa's characteristic delicate brushstrokes and serenity beautifully expressed on the label.
“Artist Edition #004” takes inspiration from “Metal (Gon)” and utilizes KANOSUKE's iconic three pot stills to vat a diverse range of unpeated liquids. Rare triple distilled bourbon barrel spirit is added to lush and fruity spirit derived from Spirits Still 2 (SS2), giving depth and complexity. Furthermore, Islay casks matured in Hioki, Kagoshima, create a lingering finish reminiscent of the layered sea breezes of Islay and Hioki.
Please enjoy the layered aromas, flavours, and aftertastes, as if you were seeking “Metal” slumbering within the earth.
Keiko Yuasa - A view born from a synergistic relationship
“This piece was born from an abstract landscape that emerged as I explored the interconnectedness of the Five Elements. The core idea—‘gold born from the earth, radiating unwavering light’—guided my process. My typical technique involves ‘scratching,’ where I scrape away layers of colored paper or painted wood to reveal what lies beneath. This act of excavation felt naturally aligned with the theme of digging for gold—an intimate, almost meditative process.
I often use gold leaf and meiqian (Chinese metallic foil) to represent light. This time, I found myself confronting the theme of gold not only as a material but as a source of illumination. It became a deeply meaningful experience to trace the unseen brilliance that emerges from within the earth.”
Artist Profile
Keiko Yuasa is a Nagoya-based artist who has held solo exhibitions in Japan and abroad. Her works combine painting, scratching, and layering to reveal hidden forms and subtle narratives.
Notable projects include room art for HOTEL VISON in Mie Prefecture (2021), book illustrations for Taberu Tanoshimi by Minori Kai, covers for the monthly Ohara-ryu Souka magazine (2022–2023), and the publication of her art book OMAMORI (Elvis Press, 2023).
