Masahiro Sakakura specializes in Hagi ware, a traditional pottery style from Yamaguchi Prefecture. He emphasizes the intrinsic qualities of local clay, personally excavating and refining it to highlight its unique characteristics. His creations are deeply influenced by the aesthetics of the tea ceremony, focusing on tea pottery.
1983: Born in Nagato City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan.
2007: Graduated from the Department of Sculpture at Tokyo University of the Arts.
2009: Completed a Master's degree in Sculpture at the same university.
2011: Finished the ceramics course of the Kyoto City Traditional Industry Technician Training Program.
2020: Held his first solo exhibition at Kakiden Gallery in Tokyo.
2024: Succeeded the title of Shinbei Sakakura XVI on May 27.
Artists comments on the clay
"I believe that the characteristics of Hagi ware lie in the soil, and I dig into the soil and refine it from scratch to bring out the unique charm of the soil."
Directly from Masahiro Sakakura
About Masahiro Sakakura (Hagi, Japan)
Sakakura frequently employs Kohiki and Hakeme techniques, which involve applying white slip to the clay surface, and fires his pieces in a traditional climbing kiln (noborigama). This process results in works that embody both the rustic charm and refined elegance characteristic of Hagi ware.
All Pictures by Masahiro Sakakura, some by Marcel Karcher (unearthed-gallery.com)
