Miki Inoue

Elegant glass katakuchi from Toyama — soft curves, a lens-like polished base, and a quiet sophistication that moves you the moment you see it.

Short Bio

Born and based in Toyama / Kanazawa, Japan
Graduated from Sugiyama Jogakuen University (1995)
Completed one-year glassblowing course at Notojima Glass Studio (2001)
Grand Prize / Tokyo Governor's Award, 9th Tokyo Dome Tableware Contest
Prize winner, 4th Amanohashidate Art Exhibition
Selected for 20th Asahi Contemporary Craft Exhibition (2002)
Completed second training at Seto City New Century Crafts Center Glass Studio (2003)
Continues producing work in Kanazawa and Toyama; exhibits solo and in group shows

The first time I lay eyes on one of Inoue-san's Katakuchi I was deeply moved by its simple yet elegant shape: soft curves, voluptuous yet reduced — and of course, highly functional in use.

About Miki Inoue (Toyama, Japan)

Miki Inoue trained across some of Japan's most respected glass institutions — from the Notojima Glass Studio on the Noto Peninsula to the Seto City New Century Crafts Center — building a practice grounded in both technical rigor and poetic restraint. Her work has been recognized at a national level, receiving the Grand Prize and Tokyo Governor's Award at the Tokyo Dome Tableware Contest and selection for the prestigious Asahi Contemporary Craft Exhibition.

Her katakuchi pieces are what draw immediate attention: simple in outline, yet deeply considered. The soft curves carry a quiet voluptuousness. The polished base creates a lens-like optical effect, transforming the vessel into something that plays with light. These are not decorative objects — they are intended to be used, to hold tea, to pour.

Heat-resistant to approximately 85°C, they are well-suited for brewing green tea or serving cooled infusions. Handwash only; avoid microwave and dishwasher.