About Shikoukai

History of Skikoukai

Founded by Teiko Hoshi in 1956. At the time she had around 40 apprentices who practiced not only dolls, but on sculpturing, Japanese painting, and various other traditional arts.

The very first gallery opening was held in 1958 at the Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi main store. The exhibit sought attention not just from regular spectators but had the honor of being visited by the Imperial family. Of course, many other important figures from political and business circles came to appreciate the Shikoukai’s work as well.

And so for 57 consecutive years, this gallery exhibition was held. Right up until 2015, in which Teiko Hoshi (aged 95) began her retirement, marking the temporary disbanding of the Shikoukai as well. However, unable to let the Kodai-gire that had yet to see use go to waste, Sumiko Hoshi and Setsuko Sekine re-established the organization in 2017.

Founder and Master Doll Artist
Teiko Hoshi

Born November 1919, in Tokyo. Teiko Hoshi was fascinated by Kodai-gire, and from 1950 onward embarked on her doll making adventure.

Later on, she came into contact with the painter, Shinsui Itō, who convinced her to start the Shikōkai. He taught her various methods and techniques for doll crafting; finally bringing her to the realization that, having each craftsperson choose their own style, allowed them to bring out their individuality within the doll.

Current Master Doll Artists

Setsuko Sekine

Became a member of Shikoukai in 1972. Has participated and produced work for the Mitsukoshi gallery exhibit 36 times. Teiko Hoshi’s last apprentice.

At the age of 27, Setsuko fell in love with doll making after visiting one of the Shikoukai’s gallery exhibits. After which, she pleaded directly to Teiko Hoshi to take her in as an apprentice.

She departed temporarily from doll making after becoming pregnant and having a child. However, unable to forget the dolls she adored, returned to work once she was able to again.

Sumiko Hoshi

Became a member of Shikoukai in 1971. Has participated and produced work for the Mitsukoshi gallery exhibit 47 times.

Sumiko became involved in doll making after marrying Teiko Hoshi’s eldest son. However, she has always been interested, and good at, art and drawing. She often looks back to that precious moment when she was first introduced to the Shikoukai dolls for inspiration as she creates her own.