Ren Ichiki To escape the strict discipline of his father, a former soldier, Ichiki devoted himself to the world of painting and moved to Tokyo. He earned money for his travels and set off on a journey. While still in his teens, Ichiki traveled to over 10 countries around the world, painting as he went. After 10 years, Ichiki returned to Japan and entered the world of pottery and flower arranging. He is a man of many faces, including painter, calligrapher, potter, and flower arranger etc. He is currently based in Oita, where he runs a gallery alongside his pottery.