Kazuya Ito of First Arrows
During his brief stay in London we caught up with Silversmith Kazuya Ito of First Arrow's.
How did you become a silversmith?
I’ve always been drawn to Silver jewellery from a very young age. One of my first memories of a specific piece was when I was around 14 years old. I saw a piece made by a pioneer Japanese silversmith, it blew my mind, I was so intrigued by it. From that point on I told myself, I’m going to dedicate my life to this craft and spread the culture in Japan! I’ve never looked back ever since.
Do you get inspiration while traveling around the world?
Absolutely! Recently I accompanied Matushima San from Clutch magazine on a business trip to Paris, I was inspired by the people I met, and the city. I try to stay aware of all of my surroundings so I don’t miss anything.
You often use the Sun motif in your designs, what does it mean to you?
I think that the Sun is an important symbol for all Japanese people, being from the land of the rising sun! I believe it is the beginning of all lives that exist in the world. I like to include it in my designs as it is a powerful and recognisable symbol all over the world.
You have superb bike collection, what would you say is your favourite bike at the moment?
Wow that’s a difficult question, I have far too many to choose from! I think at the moment it has to be my Harley Davidson 1948WR. This racing bike which, as the name suggests, is their 1948 model. These were designed specifically for racing and made in super limited numbers. It’s my go to racing bike at the moment. If you get the chance to come to Japan, you might find some of my collection on display in my stores across Japan.
How do you spend your days off?
I don’t usually have a regular day off. The lines get quite blurred between finishing work and downtime. Because I love what I do, I enjoy every day! If I do find myself with a rare day off, I’m mostly spending it with my bikes and cars, as I said I love collecting but also racing them. I’ll actually be racing a 1941 Indian Scout at an event in Florida in March!
Lastly, when will you be back in London?
I’m not 100% certain just yet but I’d love to come back soon, my trip this time wasn’t long enough. Hopefully summertime if not then perhaps in the winter.
