Simple Beauty and Warmth
Blending Seamlessly into Daily Life
In the serene countryside of Hiyoshi, Nantan City, ceramic artist Hiroshi Nagamoto has established his workshop.
Born in 1959, he graduated from a specialized ceramic school and honed his skills at the renowned Omuro-yaki kiln, Wazen Toen, before setting up his independent studio in this tranquil setting.
His journey reflects an unwavering passion and curiosity for pottery.
Upon entering his workshop, the first thing you notice is the gentle hum of the potter's wheel. Moist clay responds to his fingertips, gradually taking shape.
The simplicity and charm of his works are underpinned by the advanced wheel-throwing techniques he mastered during his time at Wazen Toen.
Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware require exceptional precision, especially in the Japanese tableware used by high-end restaurants. Even the slightest deviation is unacceptable.
With skills refined in this demanding environment, Nagamoto is a rare artisan preserving traditional techniques that are becoming increasingly scarce.
Through touch, he intuitively gauges the clay's condition, infusing life into his creations. Despite his calm demeanor, his eyes reflect deep focus and concentration.
His works are simple yet exude a unique warmth, offering a sense of understated elegance.
One of the secrets lies in his custom-blended glazes. By mixing glazes and altering firing techniques, he achieves new hues and textures.
Inside the kiln, as the flames work their magic, the glaze transforms, creating unique and vibrant colors. Drawing on years of experience and intuition, he brings forth pieces with gradients that seem to mirror nature itself.
Nagamoto's tableware is praised for its surprising ease of use. The refined design and practicality blend seamlessly, subtly enhancing everyday meals.
With its sophisticated forms and intricate hues, his work quietly complements daily life, embodying his philosophy: "To live alongside everyday moments."
Hiroshi Nagamoto continues to create pottery that enriches lives, cherishing the warmth imbued by his hands.
