Yohei Kiyonaga | Architectural Conservation | Excellence in Research

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Mr. Yohei Kiyonaga | Architectural Conservation | Excellence in Research

Senior Specialist for Cultural Property , Agency for Cultural Affairs, Government of Japan, Japan

Mr. Yohei Kiyonaga is a distinguished figure in the realm of architectural conservation, showcasing excellence in research. As a Senior Specialist for Cultural Property at the Agency for Cultural Affairs within the Government of Japan, his contributions are invaluable. With profound expertise and dedication, Mr. Kiyonaga embodies a commitment to preserving Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Through meticulous research and innovative approaches, he ensures the conservation of architectural treasures for future generations. His profound understanding of cultural significance and technical mastery empowers him to navigate complex conservation challenges with finesse. Mr. Kiyonaga’s work epitomizes a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, reflecting Japan’s enduring cultural legacy.

Profile

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EDUCATION:

In 2000, the Kyushu Institute of Design in Fukuoka, Japan, conferred a Master of Arts in Design upon its distinguished graduate. This milestone marked not only the culmination of rigorous academic pursuits but also the beginning of a journey characterized by creativity, innovation, and mastery in the field of design. Situated in the vibrant city of Fukuoka, renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and avant-garde design scene, the institute provided a nurturing environment where theoretical insights converged with practical application. Equipped with a deep understanding of design principles and methodologies, the graduate embarked on a career poised to make meaningful contributions to the dynamic landscape of design innovation.

EXPERIENCE:

With a rich tapestry of experience spanning several esteemed institutions, Mr. Yohei Kiyonaga has emerged as a stalwart in the field of cultural heritage conservation. Commencing as a Technical Officer at the Land Readjustment Foundation in Fukuoka from 2000 to 2003, he laid the foundation for his illustrious career. Transitioning to roles as a Researcher at the National Research Institute for Cultural Property in Nara and subsequently as a Technical Officer at the Agency for Cultural Property in Tokyo, Mr. Kiyonaga’s expertise flourished. His journey culminated in pivotal positions such as Senior Specialist for Cultural Property, reflecting his unwavering dedication to preserving Japan’s cultural legacy. As Project Manager at the International Center for the Study of Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Property, his global impact reverberated. Mr. Kiyonaga’s enduring commitment continues to shape the landscape of cultural conservation, embodying excellence and vision.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS:

Mr. Yohei Kiyonaga has made significant contributions to the discourse on architectural heritage preservation through his scholarly publications. In his work “The Japanese Concept of Preservation of Historical Areas and the EAHY,” featured in ‘A Future for Our Past,’ he explores the Japanese approach to preserving historical areas within the context of the European Architectural Heritage Year. In “Securing Traditional Techniques and Materials in Conservation on Architectural Heritage in Japan,” he delves into the preservation of traditional techniques and materials, addressing issues of degradation and technological advancements. Furthermore, in “Toshi no kyojuukankyo to Rekishitekikenzobustu no kyozon,” published in the Journal of Urban Housing Sciences, he elucidates the preservation of historical districts through traditional architectural conservation methods. Through his insightful research, Mr. Kiyonaga enriches the global dialogue on heritage conservation, bridging cultural perspectives and fostering sustainable preservation practices.

Areas of Research:

In contemporary architectural conservation, the principle of reusing original parts remains paramount, even extending to removed elements not immediately reusable due to deterioration. Despite this principle, practical challenges arise, particularly in preserving heavily deteriorated or numerous similar items like roof tiles, posing storage dilemmas. Consequently, a selective preservation approach has emerged, wherein more valuable parts are prioritized based on specific criteria. This pragmatic method has gained traction in conservation practices, yet the historical perspective on the preservation of removed parts, especially concerning selection criteria, remains underexplored in Japan. To address this gap, I conducted comprehensive research, drawing from official administrative documents and examples of national treasures and important cultural properties. This research not only sheds light on the handling of removed parts in Japanese architectural cultural properties but also offers insights into Japan’s unique conservation and repair techniques. To amplify its global impact, publishing this research as an English paper is deemed highly effective for international dissemination and recognition.

Publication Top Notes:

Evolving Methodologies in the Management of Preserved Removed Parts in Japanese Architectural Cultural Properties Journal: Japan Architectural Review Year: 2024