A vase with a natural glaze by Shigeo Takemura

Width: 10cm Height: 16cm

A conversation with Shigeo Takemura and Yotaro Takemura

The beauty of color and the appeal of form of ash-glazed vases

The " Ash Glazed Vase " by Takemura Shigeo has a unique beauty with a hint of blue shining through its grey base color. This blue color is produced by the natural glaze, and the delicacy of the ash glaze and the strength of the clay are in perfect harmony. Even if you do not use it to arrange flowers, this vase leaves an impression with its design that radiates presence in the space and its stable shape. While remaining faithful to the basics, it also features intricate beauty of form, making it worthy of being called a masterpiece of modern ceramics.

Unique glaze and color expression using natural ash glaze

Using plant ashes such as cedar, grapes, and sunflowers, we create glazes of natural origin. Cedar ash glaze is based on cedar wood ash, and the iron content creates a soft green vidro (green glaze), reflecting a warm and natural look in our works. By carefully washing the plant ashes with water to remove impurities, the subtle nuances of the natural colors that appear in the ash glaze are further enhanced.

Shigeo Takemura's journey as a ceramic artist

Shigeo Takemura's motivation for pursuing pottery began with his studies in the ceramics department at high school. After learning the basics there, he studied under Morinobu Kimura , a holder of an intangible cultural property designated by Kyoto Prefecture. After about eight years of training, Takemura went independent and currently continues to create works at Dainichi Kiln in Yamashina, Kyoto. His commitment to natural ash glazes comes from inheriting techniques handed down from ancient China, and is focused on bringing out the individuality of the material to the fullest. This is how each piece is created, each with its own unique expression.

The uniqueness and presence of ash-glazed vases in contemporary ceramics

The "Ash Glazed Vases" make the most of the beauty of natural materials and glazes, and have carved out a unique place for themselves in the world of contemporary ceramics. Each piece exudes an overwhelming presence, and the fusion of natural materials and traditional techniques leaves a deep impression on viewers. Takemura's works go beyond mere vessels and are highly regarded among ceramics fans and enthusiasts as art woven together by the beauty of nature and the human hand.

Shigeo Takemura Biography

1953: Born in Yamashina, Kyoto Prefecture 1972: Graduated from Kyoto Municipal Hiyoshigaoka High School, Ceramic Department - Studied under Professor Kimura Morinobu 1975: First selection at the 4th Japan Crafts Association Kinki Branch Exhibition 1978: Selected for the Kyoto Prefecture Crafts and Arts Exhibition 1980: Became independent and opened Dainichi Kiln in Yamashina 1988: Selected for the 35th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition 1989: Founded the Tsuchi no Ko-kai 1990: Selected for the 37th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition 1996: Encouragement Award at the 25th Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition 1998: Selected for the 53rd Shinsho Crafts Association Exhibition 2001: Solo exhibition at the Kyoto Crafts and Arts Association Exhibition, Takashimaya, Kyoto 2002: Selected for the 49th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition 2003: Solo exhibition at Okayama Takashimaya Art Gallery 2005: Solo exhibition at Yokohama Takashimaya Art Gallery 2006: Solo exhibition at Kyoto Takashimaya Art Gallery 2007: 36th Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition, Kyoto Prefecture Board of Education Superintendent Award, Certified as a full member of the Japan Crafts Association Solo exhibition at Okayama Takashimaya Art Gallery 2008: 36th New Ceramics Exhibition by a full member of the Japan Crafts Association Ceramics Division, Japan Crafts Association Award 2009: Selected for the 56th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition 2010: Appointed as a judge for the 39th Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition 2014-2018: Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition 2019-2020: Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition 2023: Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition 2024: Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition