Japanese potters

Kurosawa Yuichi 黒澤有一

1962-male Born in Chichibu, Saitama1987 Selected for the Yagi Kazuo Prize Contemporary Ceramic Art Exhibition　　　Selected for the Choza Prize Ceramic Art Exhibition1988 Completed the Tokoname City Ceramic Art Institute　　　Experimentally produced a primitive anagama (Tokoname)1989 Opened a kiln in Sakae-cho, Tokoname1998 Moved his studio to Yoshida-cho, Chichibu, Saitama.Currently lives and works in Chichibu (more…)

Kinjo Toshiyuki 金城敏幸

1959-maletsuboya pottery Born in Tsuboya as Kinjo Toshinori’s second son. He was the last apprentice of Kenjo Jiro. 1982Apprenticed to Kinjo Jiro.1983Exhibited at the Kinjo Jiro Ichimon Kiln Exhibition.1987Awarded the Encouragement Prize at the Oki Exhibition.1989Exhibited at the 3rd Kinjo Jiro Ichimon Kiln Exhibition1993Encouragement Prize at the Contemporary Okinawa Ceramic Art Exhibition (daily-use ceramics section).2006Technical Prize, Contemporary Okinawa Ceramic Art Exhibition (Daily Ceramics Division).2007Encouragement Prize, Contemporary Okinawan Ceramic Art Exhibition (Daily Ceramics Section).2009Independence2009Encouragement Prize, Contemporary Okinawa Ceramic Art Exhibition1998Established the Zakimi Factory in Yomitan Village.1998Awarded Encouragement Prize at the Contemporary Okinawan Ceramic Art Exhibition (daily use ceramics section).2000Encouragement Prize at (more…)

Hatano Hideo 波多野英生

1971-malehagi potteryBorn in Hagi1996 Graduated from Tama Art University as a sculptor2001 First prize in Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition2003 Awarded Saga Television Prize, Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramics Exhibition2004 Selected for the Tabe Museum of Art “Formative Exhibition of Tea Ceremony” (05,06,07,08,09)Recognized as a regular member of the Japan Crafts Association.2005 Selected, Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramic Exhibition2006 Awarded “Japan Crafts Association Yamaguchi Branch Director Prize” at the Japan Crafts Association Yamaguchi Branch New Works ExhibitionAwarded “Nihon Keizai Shimbun Award” at the Kyushu Yamaguchi Craft Exhibition.2009 Silver Prize, Otaki Hokkaido Ceramic Art Exhibition2012 Awarded the Shimonoseki Daimaru Prize at the Japan Crafts Association Yamaguchi Branch New (more…)

Yura Kaoruko 由良薫子

1993-femalekutani porcelain 1993 Born in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan2015 Graduated from Musashino Art University, Department of Sculpture2018 Graduated from Tajimi City Institute of Ceramic Design2019 Joined Utatsuyama Craft Studio, Kanazawa Solo Exhibitions2020 “Kaoruko Yura Ceramic Netsuke Exhibition: Catching the Wild” Gallery Hanakagesho/Nezu Netsuke Shop, Nezu, Tokyo2021 “Kaoruko Yura Pottery Exhibition: Something is there,” Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Art Crafts Salon, Tokyo　　　 Kaoruko Yura Exhibition, Gallery “Space” in Ichinokura Sakazuki Art Museum (Tajimi, Gifu)2022 “Kaoruko Yura Ceramic Netsuke Exhibition: Looking at Life,” Gallery Hanakagesho, Netsu Netsuke Shop (Netsu, Tokyo) (more…)

Kaneshige Iwao 金重巌

1965-malebizen pottery Born in Okayama, Studied under his father, Michiaki Kaneshige1995 Became independentExhibited at Shibuya Kuroda Toen “Exhibition of Kaneshige Michiaki and His FamiliesHad a solo exhibition at Okayama Gallery Midori-en2003 Solo exhibition at Shibuya Kuroda Pottery2004 Kanashige Yuho and Gan two-person exhibition at Gallery Bunkindo2007 Had a solo exhibition at Okayama Tenmaya Department Store.2008 Solo exhibition at Shibiya Kuroda Pottery2010 Solo Exhibition at Shibiya Kuroda Pottery (more…)

Hamada Atsushi 浜田敦士

1985-maleoribe pottery Born in Toki City, Gifu Prefecture2008 Completed Tajimi Technical High School Major Course2014 The 20th Mino Ceramics Shoroku Award, Tea Ceremony, Shoroku Prize2018 The 11th Contemporary Tea Ceramic Exhibition, Encouragement Prize (more…)

Mizutani Wataru 水谷渉

1975-malekaratsu pottery Born in Aichi, Japan1990 Began making ceramics1994 Trained in Karatsu1996 Studied under Koie Ryoji2000 Built a kiln in Hida Takayama, Gifu Prefecture2011 Moved to Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture2016 Began making pottery in Karatsu (more…)

Kaguraoka Bunzan 神楽岡文山

late edo periodoraku potteryKaguraoka Bunzan was a potter from Okazaki Village, Yamashiro Province, who lived around Bunka-Bunsei (1804-1830). Although details are not known, Bunzan is a pseudonym. He specialized in Raku ware and produced many tea bowls and vases. He was a potter known for his skillful imitations of Raku Ichiryu and Raku Sonyu, in particular. Bunzan’s ceramics are known for his exquisite techniques and beautiful designs and still have many admirers today. Another Kaguraoka potter named Kaguraoka Tokunyu was active around the Man’en period (1860-1861), and some sources claim that this person was another name for Bunzan. (more…)

Ogawara Torakichi 小河原虎吉

1902-1972malehashima pottery Hashima-yaki is a ceramic ware fired in the suburbs of Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture.Ogawara Torakichi (1902-1972) founded the kiln.Many of the pieces were produced with daily necessities in mind, and are known for their design, which avoids unnecessary ornamentation and technicalities. Ogawara Torakichi, a craftsman of Sakatsu ware and known as a master of the wheel, opened a kiln in Hashima, Kurashiki City, with the support of industrialist Ohara Soichiro and others.Hashima ware is made with the aim of being used in daily life and is characterised by its simplicity and calm atmosphere.After Torakichi died, his third daughter (more…)

Takeuchi Seijiro 武内晴二郎

1921-1979maleBorn in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. His father was the first director of the Ohara Museum of Art in Kurashiki, and Seijiro grew up with art and art from an early age. He went on to study at the Faculty of Economics at Chuo University, but was mobilised as a student and enlisted in the army. He lost his left arm in China, but after being demobilised he began making pottery in his home town of Kurashiki and built his own kiln in 1960. Influenced by the leading figures of the craft movement, such as Yanagi Soetsu, Hamada Shoji and Kawai (more…)

Shimabukuro Jomei 島袋常明

1925-2020maletsuboya potteryBorn in Naha, Okinawa.Joined Aragaki Pottery upon graduation from primary school and studied under Aragaki Eitoku.1949 Studied under Eisho Kobashigawa.1951 Recognised as a traditional craftsman.1958 Repeatedly selected for the Oki Exhibition.1986 Awarded Medal with Yellow Ribbon.1994 Awarded the Grand Prize at the Okinawa Times Art Award.1999 Featured on NHK’s ‘Exploring Pottery’.2001 Awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, 6th class.For more than 60 years in Tsuboya, he has continued to produce pottery with an Egyptian pattern of sgraffito, which is in the tradition of Ryukyu classical pottery. (more…)

Sudo Satoshi 須藤訓史

1976-malekasama pottery 1976 Born in Shimodate City (now Chikusei City), Ibaraki Prefecture2001 Studied under Kikuchi Hiroshi2004 Graduated from Ibaraki Prefectural Ceramics Training Institute, Moulding 1 CourseStudied under Ito Motohiko.2009 Selected, Japan Traditional Craft ExhibitionSelected, Kikuchi Biennale2014 Selected, International Ceramics Festival MinoContemporary and Ceramic Phenomenon (Ibaraki Prefectural Ceramic Museum)2015 Selected, Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition, JapanEast Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Encouragement Prize.Awarded Excellence Prize (Ibaraki Kotsu Prize), Ceramic Beauty Exhibition2009 Alethee Fistival　 (Musee de la Cernuschi, Paris) (more…)

Okabe Takaneri 岡部享憲

1951-malebizen pottery1973 Joined kiln “Toshoen” as a potter1977 Joined the kiln “Kibido” as a potter1994 Opened his own kiln in Yoshinaga-cho, Bizen City2009 Solo exhibition at Gallery Hikari every year. (more…)

Obayashi Gozan 大林五山

1905-?maleraku potteryBorn 28 October 1905 in Mure, Kida County.He was posted to Kaminishi Junior High School in Shioe Town in 1947, started pottery in Shioe around 1955 and retired in March 1960,Devoted himself to pottery. He was based in the pottery club of Takamatsu Citizen’s School and taught amateur potters throughout the prefecture. Gozan specialised in raku ware from the position of instructing beginners, and concentrated on firing utensils for the tea ceremony.He opened a kiln in Kaminishi Yakudo, Shionoe Town, and his pottery was called ‘Shionoe-yaki’ and his name ‘Doya’. Later, he opened the ‘Yakuri Kiln’ in his native (more…)

Okishio Haruki 沖塩明樹

?-2002male1948 Studied under Ogawara Torakichi, who was described by Shoji Hamada as “the best wheel grinder in Japan”.1953 Trained at the Tamba Tachikake Kiln, during which time he also attended the kiln of Kawai Kanjiro.1957 Became head of the crafts department at Tobe-yuko company.1960 Involved in the founding of the Sakatsu Tsutsumi Kiln, working as an assistant.1964 Opened the Kurashiki Minato Kiln in Sakatsu, Kurashiki City.1983 Opened the Kanpu-haruki Kiln in Ushimado Town, Setouchi City, where Sue ware was produced in the 8th century.2001 Kurashiki Folk Art Museum publishes ‘The Work of Okishio Haruki’.2002 Passed away. (more…)

Mizuno Shuso 水野秋艸

1955-malemino potterykyo potteryReal name is Mizuno Kenichiro. Graduated from Ritsumeikan University in 1977. Begins to make ceramics under his father, Mizuno Shuso. After his father’s death, he began making ceramics mainly in the Kenzan style. (more…)

Asamoto Kakuzan 浅本鶴山

1885-1957male Born in Tsuyama, he became a foster child of Fusakichi Asamoto (née Sugisaki), who had opened a kiln in Hayashida, at the age of two. When he was just 13 years old, around the time he graduated from school, his father Fusakichi, who had moved to a kiln in Ninomiya, Tsuyama City at the time, taught him how to use the potter’s wheel. Thereafter, he went to Awaji to train at Minpei Pottery, and then to Izushi in Hyogo Prefecture.Prefecture, followed by Ibe, Asagiri Pottery in Akashi, and Inami, one after another, all with a potter’s wheel on his (more…)

Ota Atsushi 太田篤

1954-malebizen potteryBorn in Setouchi City. Younger brother of Bizen Pottery artist Ota Tomio. After completing his studies at the Bizen Ceramic Center, he built his own kiln and became independent. He has won many prizes at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition and other exhibitions. (more…)

Seto Takemi 瀬戸毅己

1958-maleBorn in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture1981 Graduated from Tokyo Zokei University, Department of Sculpture1982 Trained at Aichi Ceramic Training School1992-2005 Lecturer at Toita Women’s Junior College2018- Solo exhibition at Shibiya Kuroda Toen　　Currently a member of the Oriental Ceramic Society (more…)

Kuze Seitei 久世青亭

1968-maleBorn in Kyoto, Japan, he began his career as a ceramic artist, and after producing Raku tea bowls, he continued his research on Tenmoku tea bowls from the Southern Song period in China, which are compared to the “mysteries of the universe,” and developed his own unique Tenmoku tea bowl reconstructions. (more…)

Hashimoto Daisuke 橋本大輔

1972-maleBorn in Kyoto, the second son of Hashimoto Jogaku II2002 Graduated from Kyoto Prefectural College of Advanced Ceramic Technology2002 Worked at a kiln of Miyamoto Suiko2004 Completed the ceramics course at Kyoto Municipal Industrial Research Institute2004- Engaged in the family business of making tea ceremony utensils, and also worked on his own ceramics, mainly Tenmoku.2007 Built a kiln in Otsu City, Shiga Prefecture2012 Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition (more…)

Fujimoto Hide 藤本秀

1954-maleshigaraki potteryBorn in Koka City1973-83 Studied and produced oil paintings1987-92 Creates sculptures with wood, grass, and clay1990 Started making ceramics by wild firing1991 Worked at a pottery studio in Shigaraki1995 Built anagama kiln in the mountains of Unoi, Shigaraki2000 First solo exhibition at the Shigaraki Ceramic Garden Since then, held solo exhibitions at Ginza Kuroda Toen and other venues2004 NCECA(America Indiana) / Workshop of wood-fired kiln firing2005 “Ceramics in the Lake Country” at The Ceramic Cultural Park, Tokyo2006 Participated in the reconstruction of the Kinzan Kiln (Shigaraki) in the Middle Ages2007 “Welcome to Raccoon Dog’s Palace” (The Ceramic Cultural Park)2008-12 (more…)

Nishioka Yu 西岡悠

1977-malemino potteryBorn in Chiba Prefecture.Graduated from Aichi Prefectural College of Ceramic Technology in 2011.In the same year, he studied under Suzuki Goro.In 2014, he started his own business in Ena City, Gifu Prefecture.Through his experience in making various things such as furniture and musical instruments, he was attracted to the depth of ceramics and now pursues the charm of Mino ware, especially focusing on the expression of the texture of Kizeto, which is said to be highly difficult to produce. He produces works that take advantage of the diverse characteristics of Mino clay, which he mines himself. (more…)

Nanba Koyo 難波好陽

1902-malebizen potteryold-bizen style, excellent in both wheel and workmanship.Namba Shosaku ( b. 1937 ) is the eldest son,Namba Shusaku (b. 1942), his fourth son. Both are Bizen artists. (more…)

Kurasaki Gonbee 倉崎権兵衛

?-1694malerakuzan potteryFounder of Izumo (Shimane Prefecture) Rakuzan ware. Also known simply as Gonbee. There were two brothers, Kurasaki Gorozaemon and Kanbei, among the Hagi potters, and it is assumed that Gonbee was the son of one of them. According to the “Kurasaki Family Work Record,” when Izumo domain lord Matsudaira Tsunachika opened an official kiln at Rakuzan in the eastern suburbs of Matsue in 1677, he made an appeal to the Hagi domain to invite a potter, and Gonbee was hired with 10 pieces of silver and four men’s allowance. Gombee worked at the Rakuzan kiln for 18 years, and (more…)

Sawamura Toza 澤村東左

meiji periodmushiake potterykyo potteryA pupil of Kiyomizu Rokubey III. In 1876 (Meiji 9), he opened a business in Gojobashi Higashi, Kyoto. He mainly made and sold sake and tea utensils. (more…)

Saka Koraizaemon 坂高麗左衛門

1568-1643Hagi potteryAfter Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s dispatch to Korea, Mori Terumoto, who at the time ruled the entirety of China, brought back from Korea a potter who went by the name Sakata. He later changed his name to Saka, and after Terumoto moved to Hagi, the second feudal lord of Hagi, Mori Tsunahiro, bestowed upon him the title of Saka Koraizaemon, a line which continues to the present day. The 1st generation Saka koraizaemon (1568 – 1643) teabowl 86,000 JPYThe 2nd generation Saka sukehachi (1615 – 1668) teabowl 133,000 JPYThe 3rd generation Saka Shinbee (1648 – 1729) teabowl 323,000 JPYThe 4th generation (more…)

Koyama Koichi 小山耕一

1960-maleBorn in Taito-ku, Tokyo1983 Graduated from Tamagawa University, Faculty of Letters, Department of Art, Ceramics CourseJoined the Japan Ceramic Art Club1990 Resigned from the Japan Ceramic Art Club, built a kiln in Ryusen, Taito-ku, Tokyo2010 Lectured on Lucy Lee’s glaze technique at the New National Museum of Art, Tokyo (more…)

Miyata Kenichi 宮田堅一

1957-male1993 Participated in a group exhibition in Kyoto1996 First solo exhibition, Art Space Hachigen, Gion, Kyoto2001 Built a semi-underground anagama kiln in Tamano-cho, Kasai City, Hyogo PrefectureSelected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition (’03 ’04 ’05 ’07 ’08 ’09 ’10 ’11 ’19)2003 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (’07 ’08 ’09 ’10 ’12)Recognized as an Associate Member of the Japan Kogei Association2004 Recognized as a member of Hyogo Crafts Artists Association2010 Recognized as a regular member of the Japan Kogei Artists’ Association (more…)

Fujii Takayuki 藤井隆之

1973-maleBorn in Hiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture1999 Graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts, Department of Crafts, majoring in ceramicsAwarded the Salon du Printemps prize for graduation workSelected for the 39th Exhibition of New Works of Traditional Crafts (since then, selected 19 times)2000 Selected for the 47th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (and 11 times since)2001 Completed the Graduate School of Fine Arts, Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, majoring in ceramics2001 Completion work: purchased by Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and MusicAfter working as a research student at Tokyo University of the Arts, established his own kiln in (more…)

Sukiki Takeshi 鈴木健

1971-malemino potteryBorn in Ichinokura-cho, Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture (Father: Suzuki Osamu)1997 Completed a special course at Kyoto Municipal Industrial Research Institute2005 Selected for the 52nd Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition2007 Selected, 38th Tokai Traditional Craft Exhibition2009 Certified as a regular member of the Japan Kogei Association2015 Selected for the 6th Kikuchi BiennaleSelected for the Japan Kogei Association, East Japan and Tokai Selected Exhibition, “The Present State of Traditional Crafts”, MOA Museum of Art, Gifu, Japan.2019 Gifu Prefecture Award for Succession to Traditional Culture, Commendation for Meritorious Achievement2021 Selected, Kasama Ceramic Grand Prize Exhibition (more…)

Eki Minori 易みのり

1979-femaleBorn in Osaka2002 Graduated from Kurashiki University of Science and the Arts, Department of Crafts2003 Worked at Kurashiki Ivy Square Aibi Kobo Ceramic Art Studio2004 Completed the Graduate School of Kurashiki University of Science and the ArtsSelected, Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition (04,08,09,11,12,16,18)Okayama Prefectural Fine Arts Exhibition, Awarded the Prefectural Exhibition Prize (14), Encouragement Prize (17), Special Prize of the Prefectural Exhibition (19)Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Chugoku Branch Exhibition (09 ,12 -20)Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (19)Selected, Biermagrancai 9 (12)Selected, Grand Prix of Rice Bowl (15,16) (more…)

Tanaka Sokei 田中宗慶

1535-?maleraku potteryGrandfather of Raku Chojiro’s wife. He is said to have taken the family name Tanaka and was a constant follower of Sen Rikyu. He also had close contact with Haruya Soen of Daitokuji Temple, the painter Hasegawa Tohaku, and others. In 1576, there is a record of his residence in Minamiinokuma-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Rakuchu, Kyoto (document from a Buddhist temple in Kyoto), where he was known as the best potter in Japan and ran a Raku pottery workshop with Chojiro.　Like Chojiro, he produced Raku tea bowls in the shape of Rikyu, and other Raku ceramics, such as a three-color lion (more…)

Mori Juko 森寿光

1955-maleBorn in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture2009 Studied under Murobushi Eiji and began using the kneading technique2014 Selected for Tableware Festival 2015Three-person exhibition M Space (Shiki, Saitama)2015 Selected, Tableware Festival 20162018 Ceramics at “Nerikomi Studio Yumemite” (Urawa-ku, Saitama City) (-present)Selected, 58th East Japan Traditional Crafts ExhibitionSelected, The 6th Exhibition of Ceramic ArtSelected, 48th All Pottery ExhibitionSelected, Tableware Festival 20192019 Selected, The 66th Japan Traditional Crafts ExhibitionSelected, 49th All Ceramic ExhibitionSelected, Tableware Festival 20202020 Selected, The 8th Exhibition of Ceramic Art2021 Selected, 61st East Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition2021 Selected, Kasama Ceramic Art Grand Prize ExhibitionTableware Festival 2022Nerikomi Group Exhibition, AC Gallery, Ginza, (more…)

和泉屋製陶所 Izumiya Pottery Factory

tokoname potteryOne of the oldest bonsai pot makers in Tokoname. The kiln of Matsushita Masuhisa (father) and Matsushita Masuo (son), artists of Tokoname ware. It is commonly known as ” Zenigo,” although it is properly called Izumi-gama. This common name is derived from ” zenigo rin-sei,” which is traditionally used, and was established because the “KO” in the seal script “zeniKO” can be seen as “GO” as well. Incidentally, “zenigo rin-sei” was originally a Chinese inscription from Zhongdu, and it is a remnant of the copying of the inscription when the Chinese copy of the bowl was made before World (more…)

Tanaka Somi 田中宗味

early edo periodmaleraku potteryHis name is Shozaemon.He was the son of Tanaka Sokei and the elder brother of Kichizaemon Jokei.In the Raku kiln genealogy up to around Genroku (1688-1704), he was the second generation after Chojiro, and Jokei was the third generation, but for some reason, in the subsequent genealogy, Shozaemon was omitted from the Raku generation and Tsunekei was the second generation.Therefore, after that, Somi is treated as a side kiln. (more…)

Kumagai Tomohisa 熊谷智久

1969-malekoishiwara potteryKoishiwara Pottery, a traditional Japanese craft, is produced in Asakura-gun Toho-mura, a mountainous area in Fukuoka Prefecture. Graduated from Musashino Art University (oil painting major)Selected for many prizes at the Japan Traditional Crafts ExhibitionSelected, Japan Ceramic Art ExhibitionSelected, Western Japan Traditional Crafts ExhibitionSelected, Western Japan Ceramic Art ExhibitionSelected, many prizes and Honorable Mentions, Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramics Exhibition AwardsFukuoka Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry Director-General’s Prize (Highest Award)Grand Prize, Koishiwara Pottery Traditional Crafts Exhibition (Highest Prize)Fukuoka Prefecture Art Exhibition, Fukuoka Prefecture Governor’s Prize (Highest Award)Many other prizes (more…)

Kishida Ryo 岸田怜

1984-maleBorn in Nagano, Japan2005 Studied under Shimada Yoshihiro2009 First prize at the East Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (since then, 9 times)2010 Selected for the first time at the Issuikai Ceramic Art Exhibition (now the Ceramic Art Exhibition) (since then, selected 7 times)2014 Selected for the first time at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (since then, selected seven consecutive times)2015 Selected for the first time at the Kikuchi Biennale (since then, selected twice)2019 Nominated for the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition Prize2020 Selected, Mino Tea Ceremony Exhibition2021 Selected, Arita International Ceramics ExhibitionSelected, Kasama Ceramic Art Grand Prize Exhibition (more…)

Asai Keiko 浅井敬子

1947-female1999 Built a kiln in Hachioji City, Tokyo2004 Studied under Murobushi Eiji, a kneading pottery artist in Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture2011 Selected for the 41st and 42nd All Ceramic Exhibition2012 Selected, The 20th Tableware Festival Grand Prize Exhibition (21st, 23rd, 24th, 25th, 26th)2013 Selected, The Ceramic Foundation Exhibition2015 Selected, The 55th East Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (60th)Selected, 62nd Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (64th)2016 Selected, The 9th Gifu Toki City Tea Ceramic Exhibition2019 Selected, 8th Soba Inoro Art Competition, Azumino, JapanSelected, The 6th Ceramic Art Exhibition (7th, 8th, 9th) (more…)

Matsuo Masako 松尾まさこ

1969-femaleBorn in Iizuka City, Fukuoka Prefecture1975 Studied ceramics under his father, Matsuo Muzo1993 Graduated from Fukuoka Women’s University, Faculty of Letters (licensed to teach high school)1995 Studied dyeing and weaving under the tutelage of Torisu Mizuko, a Medal with Purple Ribbon artist.1997 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition2005 Selected, Japan Crafts Exhibition (2005, 2007, 2009)2006 Juror, Fukuoka Prefecture Senior Art Exhibition2007 Recognized as one of the “30 Selected Ceramic Artists of Western Japan(Exhibition of his works at Kyushu National Museum)2008 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts ExhibitionSelected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Western Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, and Western Japan Crafts Exhibition2009 Selected, Japan (more…)

Furukawa Takuro 古川拓郎

1979-maleBorn in Kyoto2002 Graduated from Kyoto Seika University, Faculty of Fine Arts, Ceramics Course2005 Completed Ceramics Course, Kyoto Municipal Industrial Engineer Training Institute Selected solo and group exhibitions2010 Gallery Momosei, Osaka2011 “The beauty is for use” Takashimaya Department Store, Kyoto, Japan2012 “Kyoto Art and Craft Biennale, Invitation Section,” The Museum of Kyoto2013 “CRIA Exhibition” Kyoto Art Center2017 ART BEIJING Sokyo booth, Beijing, China Awards and Collections2007 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition2008 Konosuke Matsushita Memorial Prize, Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki ExhibitionSelected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (more…)

Kato Kazuhiro 加藤和宏

1956-malekyo potteryBorn in Nagaokakyo City, KyotoGraduated from Saga Art College, Department of CeramicsCompleted training for successors of traditional industries at Kyoto City Industrial Research InstituteGraduated from Kyoto Prefectural Ceramic Vocational Training School, Molding Course2010 Otsu City Art Exhibition, Honorable Mention Member of the Japan Kogei Association and the Shiga Prefecture Kogei Art Association,Part-time lecturer at Osaka Aoyama Junior College, Part-time lecturer at Minoh Gakuen College of Welfare and Childcare (more…)

Hirai Akira 平井明

1975-maleBorn in Nara City1994 Graduated from Kyoto Prefectural College of Advanced Ceramic TechnologyTrained at Uji Asahi Pottery (-2000)2000 Became independent in Tawaramoto Town, Nara Prefecture, where the Karako-Kagi Ruins are located2010 Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (8 times since)2015 Selected for the Exhibition of Ceramic Art (more…)

Ito Shinya 伊藤進矢

male Born in Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture Toki Municipal Ceramics Testing Laboratory, Gifu PrefectureTajimi Technical High School, Gifu Prefecture, JapanCompleted Ceramic Science and Art Course, Tajimi Technical High School Koromiya Shrine, Atami City, Shizuoka PrefectureDedicated “Green Glazed Flower Vase, Shizuoka Prefecture Art Festival Award-winning Work” at Koromiya Shrine, Atami City, Shizuoka Prefecture.Exhibited at “Artisans of Tokai”, Nagoya Sakae Mitsukoshi Department Store, Nagoya, JapanExhibited “Crafts of Shizuoka” at Matsuzakaya Department Store, Shizuoka, JapanExhibited ceramics by young artists at Shizuoka Isetan, Shizuoka, Japan.Invited artist for the NIKKOKAI Exhibition, Shizuoka, Japan. (more…)

Yamachika Ysushi 山近泰

1975-malekutani porcelainAwarded Encouragement Prize at the 47th Ishikawa Traditional Crafts Exhibition2007 First time to participate in the Exhibition of Contemporary Art, First Prize2009 Selected, The 56th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition2010 Hokka Prize, The 63rd Souzou Exhibition Selected, The 57th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition2012 Grand Prize, The 35th Traditional Kutaniyaki Craft Exhibition2013 Selected, The 1st Toobi Exhibition2014 Selected, 2nd Ceramic Art Exhibition (more…)

Tanzawa Yuko 丹澤裕子

1961-femaleBorn in Tokyo1981 Entered Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, Department of CraftsStudied under Fujimoto Yoshimichi, Tamura Koichi, and Asano Yo1987 Completed the Graduate School of Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, majoring in ceramics1987 Selected for the Exhibition of New Works of Traditional Crafts (since then, 11 times)1997 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (since ’02 ’03 ’06)2006 Full member of the Japan Kogei Association (more…)

Fujisawa Norio 藤澤徳雄

1956-maleBorn in Kagawa Prefecture, the eldest son of Fujisawa Ritsuzan1978 Began to study Raku ware under his father1993 Entered Aichi Prefectural College of Ceramic TechnologyRe-studied the basics of pottery1994 Graduated from Aichi Prefectural College of Ceramic TechnologyStarted full-scale pottery makingSucceeded to the name of Ritsuzan the Second2009 Became an official member of the Japan Kogei Association2011 Solo exhibition in Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture2015 Solo exhibition in Sakaide City, Kagawa Prefecture (more…)

Matsuo Yuko 松尾優子

1978-femalehagi potteryBorn in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture1999 Graduated from the Ceramics Department of Arita Ceramic College, Saga Prefecture2002 Awarded the Nikkan Kogyo Prize at the Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramics ExhibitionSelected 8 times for Women’s Ceramic Art Exhibition2003 Selected 6 times at the Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramics Exhibition2004 Awarded Mr. T Prize at the Women’s Ceramic Art Exhibition.2005 Awarded Nikkei Newspaper Prize at the Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramic Art Exhibition.Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Japan2009 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, JapanSelected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, 2010Selected, West Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition, JapanSelected, Yamaguchi Prefectural Fine Arts Exhibition, Yamaguchi, Japan, 2nd Prize2011 Awarded Nikkan Kogyo Prize, Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramic (more…)

Toiyosumi Kazuhiro 豊住和廣

1947-maleBorn in Nara City1970 Graduated from Osaka University of Arts (Department of Design, Faculty of Arts)1970 Go to Europe1972 Studied at the National College of Arts and Crafts in Paris, France (Ceramics Department)Completed 3 years of study under M.PIERRE ROULOT1976 Comes back to Japan after living in France for 5 years1977 Opened the Saho Kiln (Bonju Kobo)1981 Audited at Saga Art College for one year (glaze experiment under Onishi Masataro)1982 Obo Kiln was opened1983 Exhibited for the first time at the 38th Shinsyu Kogei Exhibition, and was selected for the first time1984 Exhibited for the first time at the 13th (more…)

Yamanaka Tatsuji 山中辰次

1952-maleBorn in Tenri City, Nara Prefecture1982 Selected for the first time at the 11th Kinki Exhibition of the Japan Kogei Association (since then, he has been selected consecutively)1985 Selected for the first time at the Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition (since then, selected four times)1987 Selected for the first time at the 34th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (since then, selected 21 times)1989 Selected for the 10th Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition (since then, selected 7 times)1990 Awarded the Excellence Prize at the Northern Confectionary Art Exhibition, Japan.1993 Solo exhibition at Takashimaya Department Store, Osaka (and every other year since then); certified as (more…)

Tokuda Yasokichi 4th 四代 徳田八十吉

1961-femalekutani porcelainHer real name is Tokuda Junko. Born in Daimonji-cho, Komatsu City, the eldest daughter of a living national treasure, Tokuda Yajukichi III.1980 Graduated from Komatsu High School and studied at Jamestown High School in New York, U.S.A.1983 Graduated from Aoyama Gakuin Women’s Junior College1984 Newscaster at NHK Kanazawa Broadcasting Station (-1986)1986 Visited the world as a secretary and kimono missionary for her father, Tokuda Hachiyukichi III (-1989)1990 Graduated from Ishikawa Kutaniyaki Technical Training InstituteSelected for the 46th Contemporary Art Exhibition. Selected for the Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition ’90.Touring exhibition in Australia1991 Produced the ceramic wall “Kinrin” (JR Kanazawa Station)Completed (more…)

Honda Aya 本多亜弥

1977-femaleBorn in Nara, Japan2001 Graduated from Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and Music, majoring in ceramics2003 M.F.A. in Ceramics, Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and MusicBuilt a kiln in Tenri City, Nara Prefecture2017 Exhibited at the Shikinen-Sengu Commemorative Jingu Art Museum, “No – Utakaihajime Gyodai ni yosete -” Exhibition2019 Member of the First Judging Committee, 48th Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition (more…)

Ogata Kozue 小形こず恵

1974-femaleBorn in Fujieda City, Shizuoka Prefecture2000 Completed the graduate school of Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and Music, majoring in ceramics, with the graduation work “Blue and White Tea Vessels” purchased by the university.2001 After training at the Seto Sometsuke Kogei Kan, built a kiln in Fujieda City, Shizuoka Prefecture2012: Selected for the Fujieda City Commendation Souvenir2021: “Morning Glory”, Sometsuke Vase, purchased by the Imperial Household Agency at the 68th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (more…)

Kaneda Moe 金田萌永

1997-femaleBorn in Tokyo, Japan2020 Graduated from Musashino Art University, Department of Crafts and Industrial DesignMoved to ShigarakiStudio artist at the Shiga Prefectural Ceramic Cultural ParkSelected for the 54th Women’s Ceramic Art Exhibition 2021 The 50th Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition, Newcomer Encouragement PrizeSelected, Kasama Ceramic Art Grand Prize ExhibitionSelected, The 10th Soba Inokuchi Art CompetitionSelected, 68th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Japan.Selected, The 55th Women’s Ceramic Art Exhibition 2022 Selected, The 51st Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki ExhibitionSelected, 118th Arita International Ceramics ExhibitionSelected, 69th Japan Traditional Crafts ExhibitionSelected, 56th Women’s Ceramic Art Exhibition (more…)

Tanaka Takashi 田中孝

1978-male2009 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (-2013)2007 Selected, Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition2011 Recognized as a regular member of the Japan Kogei Association2013 Selected, Choza Prize Tokoname Ceramic Art Exhibition2014 Selected, Ceramic Art ExhibitionSelected for his master piece “Kuchiba Glazed Flower Vase” for the permanent preservation of Mino Ceramic Art.and stored in the Mino Museum of Ceramic Art. (more…)

Nishi Koichi 西功一

1948-male1982 Selected for the Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition (7 times)1983 Selected for the Chunichi International Ceramic Art Exhibition (5 times)1984 First solo exhibition at Gallery “Moose” in Seki-shi1984 First solo exhibition at Gallery “Moose” in Seki-shi, Seki, Japan; subsequent solo exhibitions at “Kohodo” in Gifu City, Nagoya Mitsukoshi, Takasaki Takashimaya, and other venues1986 Selected for “Mino 86” at the International Ceramics Exhibition (four consecutive times)1989 His works were collected by the Tajimi City Mino Ceramic Museum, Tajimi, Japan1993: Collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Gifu1994 Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (14 times in total)1999 Appeared on NHK (more…)

Shiraiwa Taishuke 白岩大佑

1985-maletokoname pottery2010 Studied under Konishi Yohei, holder of an intangible cultural property of Tokoname City, Aichi PrefectureSelected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (58th, 62nd)Selected, East Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (51st, 52nd)Selected, Japan Sencha Craft Exhibition (25th, 26th, 27th, 28th) Selected, Chozo Prize Tokoname Ceramic Art Exhibition (30th)2012 Konishi Yohei and Shiraiwa Daisuke Teapot Two-person Exhibition (2012, 2013, 2014)2015 Appeared on “Atelier Window” (STV)Selected for the 3rd Ceramic Art Exhibition (more…)

Hashidume Masahide 橋詰正英

1959-maleBorn in Tateshina, Nagano, JapanGraduated from Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, Graduate School of CeramicsStudied under Fujimoto Yoshimichi, then president of Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and MusicTrained as an apprentice for 7 yearsSelected for the Exhibition of Traditional CraftsSelected for the East Japan Branch Exhibition of Traditional CraftsSelected for the Asahi Ceramic Art ExhibitionSolo exhibition at Nihonbashi Takashimaya.Solo exhibition at Mitsukoshi Department Store, Nihonbashi, Tokyo. (more…)

Shikatani Toshifumi 鹿谷敏文

1974-maleBorn in Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture1993 Studied under Nakamura Seiroku, the holder of Saga Prefecture’s Important Intangible Cultural Asset (white porcelain)2001 Certified as a second-class ceramics technician by the Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare2005 Certified as a first-class ceramics technician by the Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare2006 Became a vocational training instructor (ceramics department)2009 Returned to Fukuoka and started his own business. Opened his own kiln. Awards2010 Fukuoka City Art Exhibition, Fukuoka, JapanWest Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition, Finalist, Fukuoka Prefecture Governor’s PrizeFinalist, Fukuoka Prefecture Art Exhibition, Asahi Newspaper Award2011 Fukuoka City Art Exhibition, Finalist, Encouragement Prize2013 Fukuoka City (more…)

Yoneda Kazu 米田和

1949-femalekutani porcelain 1991 Selected for the first time at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, and 28 times since2011 Selected for the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition and the International Ceramics Exhibition Mino2015 62nd Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, purchased by the Imperial Household AgencyWork was exhibited in Nicolai Bergman’s “Traditions and Flowers”.2016 Juror, Japan Kogei Association, Ceramic Division Exhibition2018 “Yoneda Kaz Exhibition” at Midorigaoka Museum of Art, Ikoma2020 Juror, Exhibition of the Ceramic Division of the Japan Kogei Association2021 Publication of “Yoneda Kazu’s Works” (Zelkova Namiki, Midori-no-Mori Foundation)2022 Participated in “The Power of Traditional Crafts: Ceramics for the Future” (more…)

Yamaguchi Takeshi 山口剛

1951-male Born in Hamamatsu City1975 Graduated from Waseda University1977 Started pottery under Makino Shinzo1978 Studied under Onimaru Setsuzan of Takatori Pottery, Fukuoka1985 Opened Enshu Tenryu Ware Go Kiln in Tenryu City (now Tenryu Ward, Hamamatsu City)1987 Selected for the 9th Japan Ceramic Art ExhibitionSelected for the 18th Tokai Traditional Craft Exhibition1988 Selected for the 19th Tokai Traditional Craft Exhibition1989 Selected for the 20th Tokai Traditional Craft Exhibition1990 Selected for the 9th Fugaku Cultural Award Exhibition2002 Part-time lecturer at Shizuoka University of Art and Culture (~’22)2005 Director, Hamamatsu Art Association2008 Selected for many prizes at the Tokai Traditional Crafts Exhibition (~’22)2009 (more…)

Shiina Isamu 椎名勇

1968-male1999 Built a kiln in Nasu Town, Tochigi Prefecture2008 Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition2010, 2012, 2013 Part-time lecturer at Tohoku University of Art & Design2010 Selected for the 50th East Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition2011 Selected, Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition2013: Awarded a regular member of the Japan Kogei Association (more…)

Kurihara Kei 栗原慶

1968-male Ceramic artist Kei Kurihara (resident in Tokushima Prefecture) entered the world of ceramics when he entered the Tokyo University of the Arts. While gaining experience in metalwork, lacquer, dyeing and weaving and other craft fields, he was drawn to ceramics, which he felt most comfortable with, and immersed himself in its production. His style has changed through various techniques to the current blue-and-white porcelain style formed by pale blue transparent colours and neat forms. Over the years, he has come to realize that his works have significance as a medium for connecting with people, in addition to their practical (more…)

Kaneshige Riuemon 金重利右衛門

mid edo period –bizen pottery Riemon Kanashige, who died in 1767, was appointed as the first Bizen ware artisan of the Kanashige family by the feudal lord of Okayama in 1729. He was the first Bizen ware master craftsman of the Kanashige family, and produced many fine pieces for the shogunate and as gifts for the feudal lords.His eldest son, Kanashige Risaburo, who died in 1927, lamented the decline of Bizen Pottery during the Meiji period and sought new opportunities for Bizen Pottery. Anticipating the demand for clay pipes as construction materials for railroads, he invited craftsmen from Tokoname, Aichi (more…)

Nagae Sokichi 9th 九代 長江惣吉

1963-maleBorn in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, to a family that was a potter in the Edo period and a potter of Japanese tableware since the Meiji period, he began to reproduce yohen (pottery that changes color when fired) in 1995, following the research of his father, Nagae Sokichi VIII. In 1995, he took over the research of his father, Nagae Sokichi VIII, and started to reproduce Yohhen ware. He also published a paper on “Research on the reproduction of Yohhen’s glaze” at the International Conference of Science and Technology of Ceramics and Porcelain, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and others. In addition (more…)

Yokoishi Kasuke 横石嘉助

1891-1983malemikawauchi porcelaiBorn in Mikawachi1904 Started pottery making at the age of 13, studied under Tomimoto Kenkichi at the age of 28.From 1922 to 1922, he worked in the studio of Sakaida Kakiemon for about 10 years, and then built a kiln in Motohara-machi. After the war, he built a kiln in his present location in Mikawachi and began researching sanzai (Three-color glaze) techniques. (more…)

Sakai Shiyo 酒井紫羊

1979-female Born in Gifu City2001 Graduated from Gifu University, Faculty of Education, Art Education2003 Began ceramics at Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and Music2005 Created the monument “Way of the Cross” at Tajimi Monastery2007 Graduated from Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and MusicReceived Kuwabara Award for graduation work.Tokai Traditional Craft Exhibition, Encouragement Prize, Gifu Takashimaya Prize.2008 Awarded Nagoya City Board of Education Prize, Tokai Traditional Crafts Exhibition2009 Completed graduate studies at Aichi Prefectural University of Fine Arts and MusicSelected for the first time at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition (and twice since)2010 Selected, Women’s Ceramic Art Exhibition2011 Selected, (more…)

Mochizuki Shu 望月集

1960-male Born in Tokyo, Japan1984 Graduated from Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music, Department of Crafts, majoring in ceramicsEstablished IKKAN Ceramic Studio in Nakano, Tokyo.1985 Selected for the Exhibition of New Works of Traditional Crafts (now the East Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition)1986 M.F.A. in Ceramics, Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music1988 Part-time lecturer at Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music1988 Part-time lecturer at the Ceramics Laboratory, Tokyo University of the Arts (~’93)1990 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition1994 Became independent and started his own pottery studio, IKKAN1995 Became a regular member of the Japan Kogei (more…)

Takigawa Ichiraku 瀧川一楽

1815-1888male Ichiraku is a descendant of Takigawa Kazumasu, a general of the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1600) who followed Oda Nobunaga and contributed to the unification of Japan. The Takigawa family was a family that held important positions in the Owari domain for generations.Ichiraku was a warrior of the Owari domain with a fief of 3063 koku (stipend 459450 kg of rice).He retired in 1869 and changed his name to Ichiraku. He became a tea master of the Omote-senke tea ceremony school. (more…)

Morimoto Yoshinobu 森本良信

1976-malebizen potteryBorn in Okayama Prefecture1996 Completed Bizen Ceramic Art Center2000 Built a small kiln and anagama kiln in Akaiwa City, Japan.2004 Started to show his works at solo exhibitions.2007 Moved to Ushimado Town, Setouchi City, and built anagama kiln.2012 Moved to Kanpu, Ushimado Town, and built anagama kiln. (more…)

Morishita Munenori 森下宗則

1954-maletokoname potteryBorn in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, JapanEntered Tokoname Municipal High School, Ordinary Course.1973 Started making ceramics at home.1980 Studied under Takeda Koyo.Won many awards and prizes, including the highest prize at the Chosaburo Pottery Exhibition.Won prizes at the Japan Sencha Craft Exhibition twice, and was selected 12 times.Awarded the Grand Prix (Chairman’s Prize) at the 32nd International Artists’ Exhibition.He has held 61 solo exhibitions by January, 2012. (more…)

Tamura Unkei 2nd 二代 田村雲渓

1951-maletada pottery Unkeizan-gama Pottery is a revival of Tada ware, which was a domain kiln of the Iwakuni Domain that ceased to exist in the Kan’ei era (1600-1644).Since Tada ware was often presented to the shogunate, Unkei’s kiln also produces sake cups and tea bowls for everyday use, although most of the pieces are tea ceremony utensils and flower vases. 1954 Born in Yamaguchi Prefecture1975 Graduated from Hiroshima Merchant Marine Technical College. Graduated from Hiroshima Merchant Marine Technical College.1977 Studied under Unkei I.1982 Studied sculpture at the kiln of Andong Go, a Korean Living National Treasure.1985 Awarded the Minister of (more…)

Kato Kagetsugu 加藤景次

early edo periodmaleseto pottery A potter from Owari (Aichi Prefecture). He is said to have been active during the Keicho period (1596-1615). He is also known as Hachiemon. From excavations at the Yuemon kiln in the late Edo period, many bowls with the seal of “Kagetsugu” in small oval have been excavated. (more…)

Nakazato Mouemon 十五代 中里茂右衛門

1943-malemikawauchi porcelain Born in Arita, Saga PrefectureBorn as the second son of Nakazato Mouemon, the 14th head of “Mouemon Kiln”, a famous Hirado pottery family.After graduating from junior high school, he studied under his father’s predecessor and began to pursue a full-fledged career as a ceramic artist.Since then, he has devoted himself to pottery as a potter. He did not seek to exhibit his works at public exhibitions, and his works are now highly regarded by connoisseurs as “fantastic works”.1972 Succeeded the name of his predecessor and became the 15th Shigeemon Nakazato.1991 Dedicated a work to Meiji Shrine.1995 Dedicated a (more…)

Irie Mitoshi 入江光人司

1939-malebizen potteryIrie Mitoshi was born in Ibe, Bizen, in 1939 as the eldest son of craftsman Irie Kenji. He is a ceramist specialising in craftwork, which is becoming rare in Bizen. He specialises in small objects such as hohin (teapot) and incense burners. He is not a well-known artist for several reasons, such as his limited output and lack of membership of large associations, but he is well known to lovers of craftwork. (more…)

Ogawa Tokusai 小川得斎

1785－1865maleshigaraki potteryA potter of the late Edo period. Produced Shigaraki ware in his hometown of Shigaraki, Omi (Shiga Prefecture) during the Bunka-Bunsei period (1804-30). In 1830, he moved to Ueno in Iga (Mie Prefecture) and made copies of old Iga pottery. (more…)

Tamai Rakuzan 3rd 三代 玉井楽山

1942-1990rakuzan pottery Tamai Rakusan III was born in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture in 1924 and graduated from the Kyoto School of Arts and Crafts.After graduation, he studied under Ito Suiko and honed his skills in Kyoto.He later succeeded to the third generation of Rakusan pottery and took the name Tamai Rakusan. He has exhibited his work at exhibitions such as the Nitten, where it was selected for awards.At present, the kiln is closed due to a lack of successors. (more…)

Ishida Kazuya 石田和也

1986-malebizen potteryBorn in Bizen city, Okayama 2006　 Graduated from Bizen Pottery Centre 2007　 Graduated from Kyoto Pottery Technical Centre 2007-2010 Studied under Living National Treasure Isezaki Jun 2011　 Worked at Kigbeare Pottery (Devon, UK) 2012　 Employed at Whichford Pottery (Cotswold, UK) 2013　 Moved back to Bizen in Japan to build own studio 2015　 London Hatfield Ceramic Show 2015　 Project leader for Oxford Anagama Project 2015　 Built Anagama Anagama kiln at Oxford University2015-2018　Artist Residency at Oxford University 2016-2018　Leading Bizen × Whichford project 2017　 Ceramic Art London 2016　 Artist Residency at Leach Pottery 2018　 UAL: Utsuwautsushi symposium 2018　 Organised Ceramic Art Bizen (more…)

Sakazume Katsuyuki 坂爪勝幸

1947-maleBorn in Murakami, Niigata. Met Nagami Kojin while at university and set his sights on becoming a ceramic artist. Trained in the ceramic areas of Kyushu and learnt the basics. Influenced by Nakazato Takashi’s firing. In 1974, he conducted research on old kilns under Ji Soon Tak in Korea and learnt techniques for building snake kilns and climbing kilns. Built Miwa Kyusetsu’s climbing kiln in Hagi and Kikuchi Katsutaro’s climbing kiln in Hokkaido. Built a kiln of Miwa Ryusaku and engaged in production activities. In 1979, he was appointed by the Japan Foundation as a visiting professor at the New (more…)

Ishimoto Fujio 石本藤雄

1941-male Born in Tobe-cho, Iyo-gun, Ehime Prefecture1960 Entered the Department of Crafts, Faculty of Fine Arts, Tokyo University of the Arts. Majored in graphic design.1970 After traveling around the world, moved to Finland and took a job at Dissenbure, an affiliate company of Marimekko.1974: Hired as a textile designer for Marimekko and created many designs.1989 Started making ceramics as a visiting artist in the art department of “Arabia” and continued to make ceramics1994 Awarded the Kai Frank Prize2006 Retired from Marimekko2010 Received the Pro Finlandia Medal of the Order of the Lion of Finland2011 Awarded the Order of the Rising (more…)

Mitsui Tamekichi 1st 初代 三ツ井為吉

1903-1958malekutani porcelainHe studied under Tokuda Hachijukichi I, an intangible cultural asset, along with Asakura Gojukichi II. Later, he studied under Kitade Tojiro, a member of the Nitten council, and was selected for many prizes at the Nitten. (more…)

Shirai Yasujiro 白井靖二郎

?-2008maleimado pottery Imado-yaki pottery was produced mainly in Asakusa Imado-area from the middle of the Edo period (1603-1867), and mainly produced roof tiles and miscellaneous daily utensils to support the daily life of Edo. On the side, they made dolls, which is said to be the origin of Imado beckoning cats (Maneki-Neko).After the Great Kanto Earthquake, the Shirai family became the sole potter. The Shirai family is the only family of Imado pottery craftsmen that has continued since the Edo period, and is a branch of the Shirai Hanshichi family. Yasujiro is the fifth generation.After Yasujiro’s death in 2008, his (more…)

Kawamura Takunori 河村拓典

1967-maleseto potteryBorn in Seto City, the eldest son of Kawamura Sekizan.Graduated from Nihon University, College of Art, Department of Sculpture, Sculpture Course.In 1992, inherited Sekizan Ryu-gama pottery studio. He has received many prizes and awards including Nitten, Japan New Crafts Exhibition, Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition, Ceramic Biennale, Choza Prize Ceramic Art Exhibition, Shigaraki Ceramic Art Exhibition, Kanazawa Craft Grand Prize Competition, and Seto City Art Exhibition. He is a member of the Seto Ceramic Art Association. Member of Tokai Association of the Nihon-Shinkogei. (more…)

Matsubayashi Hosai 16th 十六代 松林豊斎

1980-maleasahi pottery The 16th Matsubayashi Hosai was born as the eldest son of the 15th Matsubayashi Hosai.His real name is Yusuke.After graduating from Doshisha University in 2003, he started working for Nippon Express Shipping Division.After leaving the company, he studied the potter’s wheel at the Kyoto Prefectural Potters Training School.Later, he apprenticed under his father.In 2015, he made ceramics at Leach Pottery in St. Ives, England.He exhibited his work and held a tea ceremony at the Guimet Museum of Oriental Art in France.In 2016, he assumed the name of 16th generation Matsubayashi Hosai.He received the “Asahi” seal from Her Imperial (more…)

Abe Shinji 阿部眞士

1959-maleKawachi, Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. The workshop of “Yuko Kiln” is located in the mountains of Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture. After graduating from university, Abe Masashi, now the second generation, studied under Takita Koichi in Fukushima and Tochigi, and returned to Kitakyushu at the age of 26 to study under his father, Abe Yuko, who established the kiln. After that, he took over the kiln, and he has been making pottery by switching from ceramics to porcelain, focusing on porcelain after participating in the restoration project of celadon bowls with flower patterns excavated from the Kooro ruins in (more…)

Kobashigawa Eisho 2nd 二代 小橋川永昌

1909-1978maletsuboya potteryKobashigawa Eisho was a potter born in Tsuboya ,Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture. Also known as Kobashigawa Nio II. He is considered one of the “Three Potters of Tsuboya” along with Kinjo Jiro and Arakagi Eizaburo. Eisho studied pottery under his father, Kobashigawa Nio. Eisho is known for rediscovering the local materials used for the distinctive red enamel that characterizes traditional Okinawan ceramics. (more…)

Gottfried Wagner ゴットフリード・ワグネル

1831-1892male Wagner came to Japan from Germany and was later employed by the Japanese government. He taught at the Kyoto Prefectural Medical School (now Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine), at the University of Tokyo, and at the Tokyo Vocational Institute of Technology (now Tokyo Institute of Technology). He also taught the manufacture of ceramics and glass. Based on the knowledge of chemistry he learned in Germany, he was deeply involved in the Japanese ceramic industry. His guidance of the ceramic industry in Arita pioneered the modernization of Imariyaki (Arita porcelain). At the institute in Kyoto, which lasted from 1870 to (more…)

Sodeisha 泥走社

The avant-garde ceramics group Sodeisha, which is considered to have marked the beginning of modern ceramics in Japan, was formed in 1948 by young artists in Kyoto, including Yagi Kazuo, Yamada Hikaru, and Suzuki Osamu. While respecting traditional ceramics, the core members of the Sodeisha promoted free and innovative expression that was not bound by the concept of ceramics, and pioneered a new genre of “objet d’art” pottery that was stripped of its utilitarian qualities. The pursuit of avant-garde ceramics by the artists who belonged to Sodeisha. Their activities were highly regarded overseas and created an era in the long (more…)

Egami Shin 江上晋

1982-maleBorn in Kagami-cho, Yatsushiro-gun, KumamotoAfter graduating from Saga Ceramic College, began working with his father2007 Awarded the Traditional Crafts Museum Prize at the Kumamoto Prefecture Art Association Exhibition, and the Association Prize at the same exhibition in 20082009 Honorable Mention, Western Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Kumamoto Prefecture, Honorable Mention, Kumamoto Prefecture Art Association Exhibition, 2nd placeRecommended as a member of the association.2010 Selected for the Seibu Kogei Exhibition. (more…)

Uwataki Koichi 上瀧浩一

1968-maelBorn as the eldest son of Uwataki Katsuji in Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture1988 Graduated from Toyo Institute of Art and DesignGraduated from Toyo Institute of Art and DesignDeparted for Arita Town, Saga Prefecture for an apprenticeship1993 Returned to his hometown from Arita to study under his father Katsuji1996 First prize at Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition1997 Selected for the first time at the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition2004 Solo exhibition at Nihonbashi Takashimaya Department Store2005 Full member of Japan Kogei Association2009 Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, purchased by the Imperial Household Agency2010 KAKIDEN Gallery Solo Exhibition (more…)

Urago So 浦郷壮

1981-maleBorn in Takeo City2004 Graduated from the Faculty of Art, Kyushu Sangyo University2007 Graduated from the Short-Term Pottery Wheel Course at the Prefectural Arita Ceramic College2008 Presided over the Takeo Hot Springs New Annex workshop for hands-on pottery making.2012 Passed the National Certification Test for the First Class Technician of the Hand Pottery Wheel2015 Awarded the Saga Prefecture Governor’s Prize at the Saga Prefecture Art ExhibitionReceived the Grand Prize at the Tabe Art Museum Award “Formative Exhibition of Tea Ceremony” in 20162009 Selected for the first time at the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition (more…)

Uraguchi Masayuki 浦口雅行

1964-maleBorn in Tokyo, Japan1987 Graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts, Department of Ceramics1989 Completed the graduate school of the same university, Miura Koheiji Laboratory1990 Selected, NittenSelected, International Ceramic Art Exhibition, Japan2002 Awarded a special prize at the Ibaraki Prefecture Art Festival Art Exhibition2004 Purchased by the New Orleans Museum of Art, U.S.A.2005 Selected, Kikuchi Biennale, Japan2010 6th Contemporary Ibaraki Artists Art Exhibition. Exhibited at the 10th Anniversary Exhibition of the Ceramic Museum of Ibaraki.2014 Exhibited at the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, Crafts Gallery (more…)

Umemoto Kosei 梅本孝征

1967-maleseto potteryBorn in Nakano-ku, Tokyo1986 Graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts, Department of Crafts1988 Completed Graduate School of Ceramics, Tokyo University of the ArtsSelected for the Exhibition of New Works of Traditional Crafts (1989 ’92 ’93 ’01-’05)1990 Joined the studio of Fujimoto Yoshimichi (Living National Treasure)1997 Exhibited at the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music Masterpieces Exhibition1999 Selected for the 3rd Hana no Sumika Grand Prize Exhibition2000 Exhibited at Kanayama Town, Yamagata Prefecture, Jar with Design of “Landscape with Cows” purchased by Kanayama Town2001 Selected, 19th Asahi Modern Craft ExhibitionSelected, World Competition of Arts and Crafts, Kanazawa, (more…)

Umezawa sachiko 梅澤幸子

1972-femaleBorn in Fuji City, Shizuoka Prefecture2012 Selected, 43rd Tokai Traditional Craft Exhibition2012 Selected, 67th Shinko Kogei Exhibition2013 Selected, The 21st Tableware Grand PrizeSelected, 1st Ceramic Art ExhibitionSelected, 6th Contemporary Tea Ceramic ExhibitionSelected, 60th Japan Traditional Crafts ExhibitionSelected, The 7th Contemporary Tea Ceremony Ceramics Exhibition, JapanSelected, 45th Tokai Traditional Craft ExhibitionSelected, 20th Shoroku Award Tea Bowl Exhibition (more…)

Uchida Hidekazu 内田和秀

1973-maleBorn in Matsue City1996 Graduated from Kyoto University of Education, Faculty of Education, Department of Physical EducationStudied under Bizen ware artist Inari Saku in Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture.2001 Teaches ceramics at Gion Kiln in Asahikawa-so, a social welfare corporation2004 Had a solo exhibition at Omote-machi Gallery in Okayama City, OkayamaBuilt a kiln in Hoyoshi-cho, Matsue CitySelected at the Prefectural Exhibition2005 Selected for the Chugoku Branch Exhibition of Japan Traditional Crafts2006 Selected for the Chugoku Branch Exhibition of Japan Traditional CraftsSelected, Chanoyu no Zokei Exhibition, Tabe Museum of Art, TokyoSolo Exhibition at Gallery Japan Kaoru, Kyoto, JapanHad a solo exhibition at (more…)

Ujike Ryuji 氏家龍次

1952-male Born in Ota-ku, Tokyo1971 Graduated from Tokyo Metropolitan Meguro High School1974 Withdrawal from the Department of Psychology, College of Letters and Science, Nihon University Entered Togei Art Institute1976 Entered Musashino Art University, Department of Crafts and Industrial Design1980 Graduated from Musashino Art University, Department of Crafts and Industrial Design, Ceramic Studio1982 Built a kiln in Meguro-ku, Tokyo1984 Selected for the Japan Craft Exhibition (’84 ’85 ’96 ’97 ’98 ’99 ’00)Selected for the Ceramics Design Competition (’84 ’85)Part-time instructor at Sugino Ceramic Studio, Sugino Gakuen (～1986)1985 Selected for the Asahi Modern Craft Exhibition (’85 ’86 ’00)1986 Selected for the International (more…)

Usami Seiji 宇佐美成治

1950-maleBorn in Nagoya, Aichi, Japan1974 Graduated from Musashino Art University, Department of Industrial DesignWon Good Design Award 78 times and IF Design Award in Germany.2001 Special Lecturer of Industrial Design, Department of Design Information, Faculty of Art and Design, Musashino Art University2010 Retired, started ceramic art2015 Built a kiln in Utsunomiya City (more…)

Ukihashi Mihoko 浮橋美保子

?-female2005 Selected for Fukuoka Prefectural Exhibition (15-17, 18 – Asahi Newspaper Prize, 19 – Fukuoka Governor’s Prize)2007 Selected for the Women’s Ceramic Art Exhibition (08, 09, 11, 15, 21 – Naniwa Domestic Study Abroad Prize)Became a member of Fukuoka City Cultural Federation2009 Established a studio at his home in Itoshima and named it “Mikawa Kiln”.2013 Honorable Mention, Fukuoka City Art Exhibition (14, 15, 16 – Honorable Mention)Participated in the exhibition “Romantic Yanagihara Pottery of Tea Masters and Restoration” at Fukuoka Prefectural Museum of Art.2016 Became a member of Women’s Ceramic ArtBecame a member of Fukuoka City Art League2018 Selected for (more…)

Ueda Atsuyuki 上田敦之

1966-malehagi pottery 2000 Opened a kiln2005 Selected for the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition (and three times thereafter)2008 Awarded 3rd Prize at the Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramic Exhibition (and once thereafter)Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition in 2010 (and five times thereafter)Awarded the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Prize at the West Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition.2011 Yamaguchi Traditional Craft Exhibition, Sogo Hiroshima Store Prize.2012 Yamaguchi Traditional Craft Exhibition, Zennou Yamaguchi Soil Flower Prize.2013 Yamaguchi Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Honorable Mention, Asahi Newspaper Prize.2014 Yamaguchi Traditional Craft Exhibition, Shimonoseki Daimaru Award.2014 Selected for the 3rd Exhibition of Ceramic Art (and 5 times since) (more…)

Uetake Satoshi 植竹敏

1956-maleBorn in Tsuchiura City, Ibaraki Prefecture1978 Studied under Nakano Koji1984 Built his own kiln in Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture1990 Participated in the project of installing ceramic panels in Koto-ku, Tokyo1994 Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts New Works Exhibition1995 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition1996 Worked on the ceramic wall in front of Shinonome Station, Tokyo Waterfront Fukutoshin Line1997 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition1999 Selected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Tokyo, JapanSelected, Japan Ceramic Art ExhibitionSelected, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition2000 Exhibited in “Ibaraki Ceramic Art Today,” commemorative exhibition for the opening of the Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of Ceramic Art, Ibaraki.2001 Selected, Japan (more…)