Clay Modelers:
Craftsmen with a Creative Human Touch (Part 2)
“Learn with your eyes before you hear advice.” “Think before you ask questions.”
These principles sum up clay modelers' approach to apprenticeship at Mazda. Ryokei Ono also honed his skills as a fledgling clay modeler by following the principles.
Ono chose the car industry as his career path after being captivated by the SHINARI concept model. Initially after joining Mazda, Ono was preoccupied with just molding clay into various forms and did little more than making modifications as instructed. However, participation in the HAZUMI concept model project became a springboard for him to move to the next level.
The HAZUMI concept, the essence of which is reflected in the design of the new Mazda2, features an aerodynamic compact body that encapsulates the “KODO – Soul of Motion” design. Ono, who was tasked with designing the area around the headlights and supporting the overall design work, says he was stunned by the amazingly complex composition of planes and lines of the car body.
“When designing parts, even tiny ones, we must take great care to ensure that their planes and lines are harmonious with the whole of the car,” Ono says. “I learned that to do so, it is essential to always look at things with a broad mind and understand the theme of the car. I also recognized once again the importance of not only focusing on technological aspects but also finding the designer's true intention.”
In Mazda's design, clay modelers are creative craftsmen, rather than mere workmen. Designers and clay modelers exchange ideas and sometimes clash with each other. This open culture is the wellspring of the creativity of the “KODO – Soul of Motion” design. Ono's dream is creating a car whose beautiful form fascinates people, just as the SHINARI captivated his heart.
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