Ash-glazed vase by Yotaro Takemura

Ash-glazed flower vase by Yotaro Takemura: A fusion of nature and strength

Takemura Yotaro's "Ash Glaze Vase" is a unique piece in which a bold green glaze is applied to white ceramic that appears to replicate cracks in the earth. This piece maximizes the power of ash glaze and embodies a stunning fusion of the beauty of nature and the skill of the human hand. The vividness of the colors and stable shape are in perfect harmony, and the vase stands out even without flowers inside.

Stable shape and delicate expression

The shape of the "Ash Glazed Vase" exudes a sense of stability. Its cylindrical form, supported by a firm base, gives the viewer a sense of stability and security, while at the same time its delicate expression tightens the overall work. While the form appears simple at first glance, the intricate application of the glaze and the white surface that evokes the earth symbolize the power of nature and the delicacy of art .

Boldness of white and green colors

The most striking feature of the Ash Glaze Vase is the bold green glaze applied to the surface of the white, cracked-looking ceramic . The white symbolizes the earth, and the green the vitality of plants; this contrast gives the piece a powerful expression. The green glaze is applied boldly, like water flowing naturally, and together with the random crack pattern, it evokes the randomness of nature. The vividness of the color and the beauty of the shape are in harmony, and its charm is further enhanced by arranging flowers in it.

The charm and history of ash glaze

Ash glaze is a glaze that uses natural wood ash as a solvent, and is a traditional technique that has been used in Japanese pottery since ancient times. By skillfully utilizing this ash glaze, we are attempting to combine tradition with modernity. Natural glaze, in which natural ash produced by burning wood in the kiln appears on the surface of the pottery as a glassy glaze, is a technique that truly captures the power of nature directly in the work .

Ash glazes can be used to create a variety of expressions depending on the plants and trees used, and there are a variety of glazes made from chair ash, earth ash, straw ash, etc. Takemura's technique, which freely controls the changes in color and texture of these ash glazes, maximizes the possibilities of ash glazes.

Yotaro Takemura and Dainichi Kiln

Yotaro Takemura, who grew up in the Dainichi Kiln in Yamashina Ward, runs the kiln with his father, Shigeo. Dainichi Kiln is located at the foot of Minami Dainichiyama, and is known for its style that values ​​nature and tradition, such as using glazes made from wood ash. Yotaro Takemura creates contemporary works using ash glazes and spraying techniques , pursuing new possibilities in ceramic art.

The tools used in Takemura Yotaro's work are handcrafted and are optimally suited to the shape of the piece. His techniques incorporate natural materials and glazes made from compound compounds, showcasing a fresh style that respects tradition while skillfully incorporating modern technology.

A work of art that combines nature and modernity

Takemura Yotaro's "Ash Glaze Vase" is a masterpiece of contemporary ceramics, a beautiful fusion of nature and human craftsmanship. The natural texture of the ash glaze and the vividness of the green glaze give the entire piece a sense of strength and delicacy. This piece stands out in its beauty even without flowers inside , and is sure to be beloved by many as a modern masterpiece.

The Ash Glazed Vase is a work of art that uses natural materials but clearly reflects the design of human hands, and is a piece that demonstrates the fusion of Takemura Yotaro's unique perspective and technique.

Biography of Yotaro Takemura

Born in Yamashina, Kyoto in 1981
2009 Graduated from Kyoto Prefectural Pottery Technical College, Molding Course
2010 Completed the Kyoto Municipal Industrial Testing Center Ceramics Training Course Started making pottery with his father, Shigeo, at Dainichi Kiln
2011: Selected for the 40th "Japanese Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition" National Cultural Festival Kyoto 2011 Art Exhibition "Crafts" Encouragement Award
2012: Selected for the 41st "Japanese Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition" Selected for the Kyoto Art and Craft Biennale
2013: Selected for the 42nd "Kinki Traditional Japanese Crafts Exhibition" Solo exhibition at Takashimaya Kyoto store, Arts and Crafts Salon
2014 Selected for the 43rd "Japanese Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition"
2015 Selected for the 44th "Japanese Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition"
2016: Selected for the 45th "Japanese Traditional Crafts Kinki Exhibition"

A conversation with Shigeo Takemura and Yotaro Takemura