Originally from Kanagawa prefecture, Kazuhiko Kudo chose to be based out of Asahi-kawa in Hokkaido because of the soil called, Kenbuchi clay. Never used for ceramics, this clay is roughly 200 million years old, and about 45,000 years ago it came to Japan through Siberia. It became a question of how this clay can be used, and as a result of five years work, the utterly original yellow kohiki was developed. As its name implies, it is the kohiki technique with traces of yellow, however, like the land in Hokkaido, there is strength in the material. This past year, he built a wood-fire kiln. From that vast serene nature grows a powerfully strong, deep, and dynamic expression.
Takashi Yomiya - Stoneware Kumamoto Prefecture
After apprenticing with Takashi Nakazato, Takashi Yomiya established his own unique style. Now, he is one of Japan's most famous ceramicists. His characteristic style, shape, and technique that was so unique has now become a staple in tableware. As he continues to be the top pottery maker in Japan, he simply aims for "tableware that can make food taste even slightly more delicious" - perhaps an ideal that has no end nor an answer.
Kan Kishino - Stoneware Mie Prefecture
Yakishime, Ido, Kohiki techniques, Kan Kishino is the divine potter in pursuit of the imperial-style stoic Japanese ceramic arts. Kan Kishino continues to research ancient oriental pottery; his ability to gain insight from the antique craftsmanship cannot be surpassed even by certified experts. He takes the antique ware in his hands, carefully examines it - the shape of the inner part that dips in is certainly indicative of a potter of that time. Furthermore, he looks at the way it's made and the materials to make inferences. For his own pieces, he's relentless and carries a heavy burden by constantly asking, "what is the meaning of making things?". Kan Kishino's pieces are not reproductions. They are creations.
Eisuke Matsui- Second generation president of Kurashino Utsuwa HANADA ceramic shop at Kudan Sakaue, Chiyoda, Tokyo.
He was born and raised in the Chiyoda district in Tokyo, an area that has been at the heart of Japan since the Edo period. The neighborhood people are antique lovers and ceramics lovers. He attended Bancho elementary school and Koujimachi middle school, a true native from Edo - a Yamanote person. Many ceramicists seek out his consultation and opinion. It's his turn to express his ceramics world from the two hundred ceramic artists he manages.
