Salt kiln vase by Takeshi Shimizu

Height: 10.3cm Width: 17.1cm

Shio Kiln Vase by Tsuyoshi Shimizu - A work of art that combines the beauty of blue with salt kiln techniques

A special glow brought by vibrant blue

The "Shiogama Vase by Tsuyoshi Shimizu" stands out for its vibrant blue, painted with a blue pigment called gosu. The greatest appeal of this vase is the transparency and depth that is created by painting with pigment rather than glaze. It has unchanging beauty from any angle, and emanates a presence that instantly elevates any space. The blues created by Tsuyoshi Shimizu add a touch of art to everyday life.

The unique texture created by the salt kiln technique

This vase is made using the salt kiln technique, which originated in Germany in the 13th century. This technique involves adding salt during firing, which creates a unique texture on the surface of the vessel. Tsuyoshi Shimizu uses a traditional climbing kiln to slowly fire the piece at a high temperature of over 1230°C for approximately two and a half days. The process in which the salt evaporates and creates natural patterns on the surface of the vessel is truly a miracle that combines the power of nature and the skill of a master craftsman.

The crystallization of labor and tradition in climbing kilns

Firing in a climbing kiln is a traditional technique that takes time and effort, but it also gives the work a unique texture and durability. Shimizu Tsuyoshi's salt kiln vase is characterized by its durable and beautiful finish, which is achieved through long firing times and the addition of salt. Through this process, the entire vessel takes on a unique texture, giving it a one-of-a-kind presence.

A fusion of craftsmanship and artistry

Tsuyoshi Shimizu's Shiogama flower vases are crafted with exceptional skill and artistic sensibility, from the way the gosu is applied to the timing of the salt kiln firing. The aesthetic sense and careful finish that resides in the details will allow you to discover new charms every time you use them. They are works of art that are not only beautiful to look at, but also practical in terms of their texture and durability.

A presence that brings out the flowers

This Shiogama vase will enhance the beauty of any flower placed inside. Its vibrant blue and unique texture bring out the charm of the flowers and create a special atmosphere in any space it is displayed in. It blends naturally into any setting, such as a living room, entryway, or study, and serves as an art piece that elevates any space.

everlasting value

Shimizu Tsuyoshi's Shiogama flower vase is a masterpiece that continues to maintain its beauty over time. The more it is used, the more its texture and flavor deepen, deepening the attachment of the owner. Not only can it be used and cherished for a lifetime, but it is also a valuable piece to be passed down to the next generation, and its appeal will continue into the future.

Biography
Born in Tachikui, Hyogo Prefecture in 1975
1999 Graduated from Kyoto City University of Arts, Department of Crafts, majoring in ceramics. Studied under ceramic artists Masayuki Imai and Masamasa
2005 - Worked at the Museum of Ceramic Art, Hyogo (until 2012)
2010 - 2011 Part-time lecturer at Hyogo University of Teacher Education
2015: Visited Canada (Owata, Vancouver) through a Ministry of Foreign Affairs program
2019 Lecture at the Japan-Korea Academic Symposium (Gimhae Buncheong Ceramics Museum/Korea, '16)

Major Exhibitions/Open Call Exhibitions
2010 Biennale KUMAMOTO FINAL (Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art)
2012 Kyoto Prefectural Art and Craft New Artists Exhibition, Kyoto Art and Craft Biennale (Kyoto Museum of Art)
2013: Selected for the 22nd Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition ('11)
2014 Gwangju Biennale (Gwangju Folk Museum/South Korea)
2016 Exhibition of crafts from UCCN in the field of Crafts & Folk Art
(Icheon World Ceramic Center/Korea)
2017 Ischawan, One World: International Artists Chawan Ren Exhibition (Ryudo Makoto/Taiwan)
2018 2018 TEA BOWL Exhibition of Gyeongsanam-Do (Gimhae Cultural Center/Korea)
150 Years of Hyogo Pottery - From Technique and Craftsmanship to Art and Individuality (The Museum of Ceramic Art, Hyogo)
2019 KOGEI Art Fair KANAZAWA 2019 (THE SHARE HOTELS KUMU Kanazawa)
2022: Selected for the 39th Tea Ceremony Art Exhibition (Tabe Museum of Art/Shimane) (6 times in total)
2023 Selected for the 10th Kikuchi Biennale (Kikuchi Kanmi Memorial Museum Tomo/Tokyo)

Awards
2010 Contemporary Ceramic Art Hagi Grand Prize Exhibition 2010 (Hagi Museum of Art, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Urakami Memorial Museum) Honorable Mention
2011: Honorable Mention at the 57th All Kansai Art Exhibition (Osaka Municipal Museum of Fine Arts) (2009: Same award)
Kobe Biennale 2011 Contemporary Ceramic Art Exhibition Encouragement Award (same award in 2009)
2017 Hyogo Prefecture Art Encouragement Award
2018: 11th Contemporary Tea Ceremony Exhibition, Excellence Award; 23rd Mino Tea Bowl Exhibition, Gold Award
2019 12th Contemporary Tea Ceramics Exhibition Excellence Award 5th Geibunkyo Exhibition Kyoto City Mayor Award
2023 15th Contemporary Tea Ceramics Exhibition Excellence Award