“KOGEism 2026 – Exposition: Les matériaux et la pensée humaine” Featuring Craft Artists from Japan and France, Will Be Exhibited at AXIS Gallery in Roppongi and Ginza Tsutaya Books
Featured Exhibitions & Events VOL.67

We share a variety of information and perspectives on Japanese crafts, including exhibition information and interviews.
Featured Exhibitions & Events VOL.67
Featured Exhibitions & Events VOL.66
New Products VOL.30
New Products VOL.29
Sep 12 – Nov 23, 2026
Mitsui Memorial Museum
Sep 18 – Sep 27, 2026
megumu art
Sep 19 – Sep 27, 2026
Ceramic gallery TOBETOBEKUSA
Sep 19 – Sep 27, 2026
Aizuya
The Sakakura Shinbe Kiln, a Hagi ware kiln located in Fukagawa Yumoto, Nagato, Yamaguchi Prefecture, has been producing exquisite ceramics for over 360 years. Now the talent of a young artist, the latest in the history of this renowned kiln, is blooming in the newest chapter of this long creative story.
This work by Masahiro Sakakura is suffused with a gentle warmth, as if expressing his personality. The black, sooty texture of the Mikomi, the interior of the bowl, and Kodai, its foot, truly reveal the rich depth of the clay as you hold it in your hand. Masahiro’s approach is nothing but sincere as he works with his own hands to bring the bowl to life, always seeking ways to bring out the charm of the Hagi clay.
The history of Hagi ware has long been interwoven with the culture of the tea ceremony. Hagi tea bowls have a unique character whereby the scenery changes every time you enjoy a bowl of tea, even reflected in an ancient phrase, “the seven transformations of Hagi.” I wonder how this tea bowl will develop in the hands of its user? Imagining such things is one of the pleasures of coming into contact with such practical art.
* Masahiro Sakakura succeeded the title of Shinbe Sakakura XVI on May 27, 2024.


