This metal artist from Takaoka City holds the honor of being Toyama Prefecture’s sole “Living National Treasure of Japan.” Born in 1941 in an area known for its copperware, Ozawa is recognized today as master of the yakigata casting technique. He is also the inventor of a cast-wrapping technique called igurumi in which metal decoration is attached to the surface of the mold before molten metal is poured inside. Ozawa blends innovative technology with creative design to push the boundaries of traditional metal casting.