Inspired by the British ceramist Bernard Leach, Kenkichi Tomimoto decided to pursue a career as a ceramicist at the beginning of Taisho Era. He was also influenced by Soetsu Yanagi, who spearheaded the Mingei (folk arts) movement, and succeeded in creating a new style of gold and silver embellished pottery called kinginsai. Uichi Shimizu is famous for his use of iron glaze, while Kosei Matsui is an expert of neriage, a technique that requires using a delicate mix of contrasting clays.
All three artisans are designated National Living Treasures and this exhibition showcases 175 of their works; Dec. 15-Feb. 24.
The Museum of Ceramic Art, Hyogo; (079) 597-3961; 4 Kondachokamitachikui, Sasayama, Hyogo; Aino Station, JR Fukuchiyama Line. 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. ¥600. Closed Mon. (except Dec.24, Jan. 14, Feb. 11), Dec.25, Jan. 1, 15, Feb. 12. www.mcart.jp/index.html.
