Murata was born in Kyoto in 1977 as the 3^rd generation of leaf artisans (gold and silver leaf, etc.), an integral part of the once prolific and internationally renowned Nishijin weaving process which combines silk, leaf and paper into obi sashes for kimono. Because of changing market trends, he has been exploring other expressions of this artisan craft with new designs as well as previously untried materials and tools with a commitment to pass down the craft to the future generations. Over the past decade, Murata has received numerous awards and official recognition for his fine work.