Shimizu
Biography
Takeo Shimizu is a Japanese-American sculptor and specialist in bronze restoration and finishing. He has worked on four continents (Asia, South America, North America and Europe) and is sought after for his knowledge and experience of old European bronze techniques and styles. He was educated at the Kyoto University of Fine Arts.
My Story
In 1961, Takeo moved to São Paulo, Brazil where he worked for the Armando Alvares Penteado Foundation as a technical assistant in sculpture. He closely collaborated with the Brazilian sculptor Caçiporé Torres.
In 1967, he moved to New York City to work at the acclaimed Roman Bronze Works Foundry. (Established in 1897, this foundry was the first in the US to specialize in the lost-wax casting method).
In 1971, he relocated to Berlin to work at the world famous Hermann Noack Foundry perfecting his knowledge of bronze sculptures. He met and worked for Henry Moore.
Upon returning to the United States, Takeo received an M.F.A. at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
In 1981, Takeo joined the Johnson Atelier as a specialist in finishing bronze and metal sculptures. He worked at the Johnson Atelier for almost 40 years, closely collaborating with Herk van Tongeren and Isaac Witken during this period.
Takeo has exhibited in Kyoto, twice at the São Paulo Art Biennial, Ann Arbor, Philadelphia, New Jersey and New York. He has also given workshops and masterclasses at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts.
Today, he devotes his full time to his own projects.
Takeo is an avid lover of classical music and mathematics. He is a proud father and grandfather.
Contact
If you would like to schedule a time to meet and explore my collections, please reach out to me by email or instagram.
Thank you. -Takeo
Instagram: @takeosculpture