Shinobu Ichiyanagi

Shinobu Ichiyanagi
Shinobu Ichiyanagi with his candy art work
Shinobu Ichiyanagi with his candy art work
Born (1952-05-26) May 26, 1952 (age 72)
Sapporo Hokkaido, Japan
Occupation(s)Amezaiku Shokunin, Gemologist, Jewelry Designer,
Years active1971–Present

Shinobu “Shan” Ichiyanagi (一柳 忍, Ichiyangi Shinobu, born May 26, 1952) also known as "CANDYMAN" is a master Amezaiku or candy sculpture artist.[1] As a party and event entertainer, he specializes in sculpting hot taffy-like candy into fantastic animals and objects using a palette of gemstone inspired candy colors.[2][3] This traditional ancient Japanese folk art that originated in China has been practiced for over 1000 years in Japan.[4]

Through a thirty-year career, Ichiyanagi has become known internationally as a live performance artist.[5][6][7]

His big fans call him as a ”Shan The Candyman", "Shan The Candy Sculptor", "Shan The Candy Artist" and more.[8]

In addition to his Amezaiku career, Ichiyanagi is a Graduate Gemologist G.G. - jewelry designer[9] and a karate Instructor,[10][11] holding Black Belts in three styles, Shorinji Kempo - Shotekan Karate - Shinkendo.

  1. ^ Los Angeles Japanese Daily News (September 2, 2013). "Breathing Life into Candy". Los Angeles Japanese Daily News. "...Shan who has been in business since 1972 performing his craft in diverse locations from city sidewalks to high-end Hollywood private parties..."
  2. ^ Editorial (1997-04-14). "Nite Life". New York Magazine.
  3. ^ AM². "AM2 brings Sweet Treats to Attendees with Shan the Candy Man". AM2CON.org. Retrieved 2013-08-15.
  4. ^ Japan Daily Press. "Amezaiku: turning candy-making into an art form". Japan Daily Press. Retrieved 2013-08-14. "...Shan Ichiyanagi, an “Amezaiku-shokunin” or professional candy maker in Los Angeles…….. he has used his karate training and gemologist education to guide his hands and eyes into making works of art that has earned him popularity in Los Angeles..."
  5. ^ Scheib, Walter. "The American Chef - After Dark". walterscheib.com. Retrieved August 14, 2013.
  6. ^ Llosa, Alonso (July 4, 2000). "Figuras de caramelo". El Comercio News.
  7. ^ The Samohi. "Japanese candy sculptor performs for Samo students". The Samohi.com. Retrieved 2013-08-14.
  8. ^ Shan The Candyman: Horse. YouTube. 8 March 2009.
  9. ^ GIA Gemological Institute of America. "Alumni Association". GIA. Retrieved August 15, 2013.
  10. ^ Los Angeles Japanese Daily News, The Rafu Shimpo (2013-01-16). "Breathing Life into Candy". The Rafu Shimpo.
  11. ^ California State University Northridge (1978-04-20). "Student Fashions Candy by Using Ancient Art Form". Daily Sundial Page 3.