Drawing Inspiration from His Father's Works, Creating Innovative Tobe-yaki Ceramics

When did you decide to pursue a career as an artisan?

It was around the time I graduated from high school. Growing up in an environment close to the kiln, I remember that choosing the path of an artisan came naturally to me.

From 2006 to 2008, you were dispatched to Egypt by JICA, where you taught pottery to local children.

I got to know someone working at JICA who informed me that they were looking for a ceramic instructor in Alexandria, Egypt.

In Egypt, I conducted pottery classes for children at a local facility for individuals with disabilities. Although the facility seemed keen on turning this into jobs for the children, they seemed to enjoy it more as clay play than actual pottery.

While Tobe-yaki is known for its thick design, your works give off a different impression.

I think sharp shapes suit my technique, so my works often have a thinner design.

Though they may seem "hard to hold" or "difficult to use" at first glance, those who use them often find the fit unexpectedly pleasant, and the lip feel is good. The gap is intriguing.