Yorkshire-based Woodcarver Yukihiro Akama unveils exclusive collection in time for Christmas
Wakefield-based Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) is delighted to unwrap a specially curated collection of ten exclusive wooden sculptures by internationally celebrated artist Yukihiro Akama.
Known worldwide for his serene, miniature architectural forms - each one carved by hand with extraordinary precision - Akama’s work sells out rapidly wherever it appears.
As from today visitors will be able to view and buy this limited collection exclusively at the YSP Gift Shop in the Visitor Centre and online.
The exquisite collection showcases Akama’s signature blend of craftsmanship, imagination and reverence for natural materials. Highlights include elegant walnut structures such as the Layered Giraffe House and the atmospheric Wayfarer Inn in the Forest, each demonstrating Akama’s masterful ability to coax depth and character from rich, dark timber.
Works in Douglas Fir, including the Floating Forest Lookout and the whimsical Floating Witch’s House, bring warmth and a subtle playfulness to the selection, while lighter pieces such as the Floating Forest Gallery - crafted from light maple - offer a delicate contrast within the group.
Oak features prominently too, with inviting forms like the Floating Treehouse, the soft-hued Blush House, and the charming Little Woodland Cottage, each revealing Akama’s sensitivity to grain, texture and proportion.
The collection is completed by the sculptural Floating Teepee in black walnut and the beautifully balanced Forager’s Rest, also in walnut, both exemplifying the artist’s deep connection to the natural world and his architectural roots.
Working from a furniture maker’s workshop in Huddersfield, Akama is surrounded by the natural world. There, he creates these singular houses, carving each one from a single piece of wood. He draws on his background as a trained architectural technician and hands-on experience as a joiner, refining his skills and techniques as part of his woodwork craft. Each piece is given a unique appearance and takes between three hours or several days to complete - some the size of a coin, others several feet tall.
The wood often dictates the starting point for the designs, with the knots or grain guiding where Akama cuts and carves. Gradually they take on the appearance of a house – sometimes low and long, or tall with stilt-like legs and large roofs, or even cantilevered out. Delicate and intricate detailing of clay render and pebbles minimally decorate and enhance the surfaces.
His inspiration comes from many sources, but much comes from traditional Japanese homes, temples and shrines spanning thousands of years ago.
Amanda Peach, Retail Programme and Product Development Manager at YSP, said: “We’re thrilled to present this exquisite collection from Yukihiro.
"His work resonates deeply with our visitors, combining extraordinary craftsmanship with a sense of magic and simplicity that feels especially poignant at this time of year. Having these pieces available exclusively at YSP is a real privilege - and we know they will be treasured by everyone who is lucky enough to take one home this Christmas.”
Available for purchase only through YSP, these ten unique works provide a rare opportunity for long time admirers or the newly introduced to own a truly one-off creation.
Available from: 1 December, prices starting from £168.
Where: YSP Shop (Visitor Centre) and YSP Online Shop