Workshop Wisdom – Junko Mori

"Hard to solve, fun to figure out."

Junko Mori is a world-renowned metalworker, known for intricate pieces that often take their inspiration from organic matter. From her workshop on the Llŷn Peninsula in North Wales, built by her husband, she works with steel, a material known for its rigidity, and makes it appear delicate and almost alive.

How did you learn your craft?

Since I was little, I loved making things, mud-kitchen, sewing, drawing, cooking, anything hands on. Particularly both my grandmothers used to show me their veg patch and Japanese old fashion life staple in countryside inspired me a lot. By the time I entered art university, I was pretty good with my hands.

How would you describe your workshop?

My workshop was designed and made by my husband John two years ago. Two storey building with timber framed and wooden cladded from local woodland, no plastic insulations, with 40 solar panels. We researched a lot on what can be created within our budget as sustainable as possible. My office overlooks the Irish Sea and Snowdonia mountains. The space we have now is so beautiful. Every time I enter the space, I appreciate John and his team, hand creating this building, and the possibility of what we together can create.

Take us through a typical working day. What sets its rhythm?

Monday to Friday, 9-5, trying not to work over the weekends but often shamefully I do! I have a few studio assistants and take tea break 10:30-11:00 then Lunch break 13:00-14:00. I often cook the food and some assistants do too. Sharing food is important for me, as we often get to know each other well and sometimes new ideas come from the conversation between us. Then I do house chores after work, then often head back to work until quite late in the night. I am a bit of a night owl…

Where do you look for inspiration outside your own discipline?

Everything! I am curious on all subjects and often cross-over some inspiration like a spider net catch and trigger new narratives. which leads to new ideas. I particularly love history, as it’s full of stories and cross-overs of small events that cause unpredictable larger innovations.