No one piece is the same as the other, as each is created with the energy of nature and withstands firing at high temperatures. Of particular note are the works that use the hikidashi or “withdrawal” technique, in which select pieces are pulled out of the kiln during firing and cooled rapidly. The ash that falls in the kiln melts at a high temperature and becomes glassy, and when it is cooled rapidly, it takes a beautiful blue-green color that sparkles in the light. Catching a view of these colors while drinking gives one a taste of great joy. Such pieces are very rare, however, as only a limited number of pieces can be withdrawn from the kiln during any given firing. Katsunori said that this is a precious thing, because “It is especially difficult for the smaller sake cups like guinomi. They roll around in the kiln or get buried sometimes.” This time, we also found a slightly light purple-colored sake cup. According to Katsunori, this is not a color you see very often either.

Each time he holds a solo exhibition, Katsunori’s Shigaraki works give pleasure to his fans with a new look. We certainly look forward to his future exhibitions.

Written by Kyoko Tsutsumi

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Artist Profile – Katsunori Sawa
https://www.kogeistandard.com/artist/katsunori-sawa/