Takashi Amano san; our master!
Takashi Amano is widely recognized as the founder of the “Japanese aquascape.” After a career as a professional cyclist, he transitioned into painting, nature photography, and ultimately, the art of aquarium design. Initially, his focus was solely on the fish, but over time, he began to incorporate Zen techniques into his work.
Ancient philosophy.
Zen Buddhism, which originated in China, made its way to Japan through Korea during the Kamakura period (1192 – 1333). Its influence was profound, giving rise to beautiful Zen gardens. Amano sought to encapsulate the essence of Zen nature within his aquariums. By using only a few types of plants, carefully harmonized with stones and wood, he developed a unique style that resonated with many Japanese. In 1980, he founded Aqua Design Amano (ADA), which became synonymous with his distinctive approach to aquascaping. His work gained international acclaim, with books written about his techniques being translated into English, thus introducing Amano’s art to Europe.
On August 4th of August 2015, Mickey Paulssen wrote on her Miroshaki forum:
“With great pain and sadness, I learned that the Master of Aquascaping, Takashi Amano San, passed away at the age of 61. He left us on August 4th in his hometown of Niigata. I am proud to have known and met him, and I create my aquascapes with him in mind. He remains for me the ‘Master of Aquascaping,’ and our forum will always be an ode to Takashi Amano San. I wish his family much strength during this time.” —Mickey Paulssen
“With great pain and sadness, I learned that the Master of Aquascaping, Takashi Amano San, passed away at the age of 61. He left us on August 4th in his hometown of Niigata. I am proud to have known and met him, and I create my aquascapes with him in mind. He remains for me the ‘Master of Aquascaping,’ and our forum will always be an ode to Takashi Amano San. I wish his family much strength during this time.” —Mickey PaulssenMickey also created the “Rest in Peace Takashi Amano” page on Facebook, which was soon acknowledged by Amano’s family. This page stands as a small monument to his legacy. Like R.I.P. Takashi Amano San and let the world now you admire his work.
His last work
One of Takashi Amano’s final projects was the Takashi Amano x Oceanário de Lisboa: The Road to the World’s Largest Nature Aquarium. This ambitious project represented a new frontier in the world of aquascaping, pushing the boundaries of what had been done before. You can read more about it at Aqua disign AmanoMore about Takashi Amano San: here
Do you have a good story about the aquarium designer giant? Did you meet him, work with him or just like his work? We are happy to publish it. With liking the FB page: Rest in Peace Takashi Amano San. Let the aquascaping world know you miss his art and are great full of his inspiration. Already 3000 + Amano fans preceded you.
Temporary pause on koi exports — healing park in development
International koi exports are currently on hold. Meanwhile, we are laying the foundations for a nature-driven healing park in Goyang that blends koi culture, art, and quiet craftsmanship. For updates or collaboration, feel free to get in touch.
Contact Kim Young SooNew to Mantifang? Begin here: Start here.
