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Choraku Ogawa IV

四代 小川長樂
Ceramic Artist • 1978 –

Based in Kyoto Prefecture, Choraku Ogawa IV is a ceramic artist and the fourth-generation head of Choraku Kiln, an independent lineage distinct from the Raku family that nevertheless preserves the traditional techniques of Raku ware. Having studied sculpture at university, he places particular emphasis on materials and continues to explore the diverse possibilities of Raku ware. Alongside traditional Red Raku and Black Raku, his work encompasses his own interpretations and developments of techniques such as Yakinuki (direct-flame firing) and Aigusuri (indigo glaze). While keeping tea ceramics at the heart of his practice, he also actively pursues collaborations across different artistic disciplines.

BASED IN
Kyoto Prefecture
WEB SITE

POINT OF VIEW

Raku ware is born from the meeting of clay, hands, and fire, with each tea bowl fired individually in its own kiln. Even as he carries forward this tradition, Choraku Ogawa IV approaches the world around him with a keen sensitivity, continually seeking his own artistic expression. When his accumulated experience and sensibility take shape, it is the flames of the kiln that determine the final outcome. Brought to life through a dialogue with nature, his works pave the way for a new expression of beauty.

CRAFT ARTIST BIOGRAPHY

1978

Born in Kyoto, the eldest son of Choraku Ogawa III

2003

Began his career as a ceramic artist after graduating from Nagoya Zokei University of Art & Design, where he studied sculpture, and the Industrial Technology Center of the Kyoto Municipal Institute of Industrial Technology and Culture

2011

Conducted lecture and workshop in Johannesburg, South Africa

2013

Participated in exhibitions of Kyo-yaki (Kyoto ware) in Cologne, Germany, and Paris, France

2013

Participated in “Kyo-yaki: The Inheritance of Technique and Beauty” at the Sagawa Art Museum

2014

Constructed large kiln for firing large-scale works in Red Raku and Black Raku ware

2015

Created an installation inspired by the Rinpa school of Japanese art at Ryosokuin, a sub-temple of Kenninji Temple in Kyoto

2016

Created an installation inspired by the painter Jakuchu Ito at the same venue

2018

Hosted exhibition, lecture, and tea gathering at Portland Japanese Garden, Oregon, USA

2018

Collaborated with Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging) and Noh theater artists at Heian Shrine, Kyoto

2022

Held solo exhibition, “Beyond the Flame,” at kajitsu, New York, USA

2024

On May 5, received honorary name Muinken and formal name Choraku from Taigan Kobori, Chief Abbot of Kenninji Temple, and formally succeeded his father as Choraku Ogawa IV

2025

Began series of solo exhibitions across Japan, starting with exhibition in Kyoto commemorating his succession as the fourth-generation Choraku

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