Master: Takashi Watanabe (渡辺隆) – Father

Born in 1952 in Shibukawa, Gunma Prefecture, Chie Tamura learned kokeshi craftsmanship from her father, Takashi Watanabe, whom she assisted from childhood. Together with her husband, Noboru Tamura (田村昇), she operates Tamura Kōgei (田村工芸), a family workshop specialising in creative kokeshi. Her works are celebrated for their expressive eyes, charming hairstyles, colourful decorations, and playful designs. Her signature creations include the Sato no Ko (里の子) series, reflecting her distinctive approach to modern Japanese woodcraft.