The Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
The Beautiful World of Ceramics
In a serene valley in Sumiya, Uji City, stands the workshop of Takako Imahashi.
Born in 1964, Takako is the fourth-generation master of the renowned Kiko Kiln, and since graduating from the Ceramics Department at Kyoto City University of Arts, he has spent 40 years honing his craft.
(A Taisho-era lamp remains in the workshop. Although no longer in use, it is a reminder of the passage of time.)
In his workshop, the wheel turns quietly, marking a comfortable rhythm as he molds the clay.
Takako's work is a fusion of traditional techniques and modern sensibilities.
(Molding process. Each piece is meticulously crafted from a complex mold.)
His work is characterized by delicate and refined kappo (Japanese cuisine) tableware and luxurious Kyoto-style paintings, each carefully crafted with attention to detail.
The light, elegant forms and meticulous craftsmanship are striking, and the colorful glazing creates a vibrant impression.
In his workshop, every step—from selecting the clay, shaping it, applying the glaze, and firing it in the kiln—is done with care and precision.
(Removing the piece from the mold. The edges are carefully trimmed to create a beautiful form.)
The sound of the wheel turning, the scent of the glaze, and the heat of the kiln all come together in harmony, breathing life into each piece.
Takako Imahashi continues to pursue evolution, striving to create artistic yet practical works by preserving tradition while incorporating new designs and contemporary values.
Every time you hold one of his pieces, you can imagine the scene of its creation and feel the artist's passion.
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Artist Biography
First Generation Kiko
Heiji Imahashi
Born in 1911 in Kyoto's Awataguchi, trained under Master Hozen Unrin of Unrin-in Temple, and acquired his ceramic skills.
He also studied painting under Master Takeshi Hirao.
In 1921, he established an independent kiln in Kiyomizu-zaka and began his ceramic work, adopting the name Kiko.
In 1932, he moved his kiln to Sennyu-ji Temple in the Rakuto area.
Specialized in reproducing ancient Chinese ceramics, particularly in red painting and kosome chado tools.
In 1943, he was certified as a Preservation Artist for his technical skills.
Second Generation Kiko
Nobuo Imahashi
In 1945, he learned the craft from his father and studied painting under Master Hyakkei Yada.
In 1953, he took over the family business, focusing on creating chado tools, and adopted the name Aoaokiko.
Third Generation Kiko
Yoshikazu Imahashi
Born in 1946, he learned the craft from his father and studied painting under Master Hyakkei Yada.
In 1958, he took over the family business from his brother and devoted himself to creating modern ceramics.
Studied calligraphy under Master Tan'en Ayamura.
In 1976, he moved the kiln to Sumiya, Uji City, and dedicated himself to creating "The Village of Ceramics" as the director of the Tanyama Pottery Cooperative.
Won awards in the Kyoto Prefectural Design Competition.
Exhibited annually at the Bokko Exhibition as a member of the Bokko Society.
In 1977, certified as a Traditional Craftsman by the Minister of International Trade and Industry.
In 1980, received the Prime Minister's Award at the National Traditional Crafts Exhibition.
In 1982, received the Kyoto Prefectural Governor's Award at the Kyo Ware Kiyomizu Ware Exhibition.
In 1994, recognized as a Master Craftsman of Kyoto.
In 1996, received the Kyoto Prefectural Industrial Merit Award.
In 1998, recognized as a Contemporary Master Craftsman by the Minister of Labor for his outstanding skills.
In 2000, awarded the Sixth Order of Merit.
(Current) Fourth Generation Kiko
Takako Imahashi
Graduated from the Ceramics Department at Kyoto City University of Arts in 1987.
Established his independent workshop in Sumiya, Uji.
In 1988, began receiving guidance from Kora Okawa, the 6th generation head of the Ogawa School of Sencha Tea Ceremony.
Since then, he has been involved in creating tea utensils under the guidance of the school head.
In 2002, held a solo exhibition at the Takashimaya Art Craft Salon in Kyoto.
In 2007, held a solo exhibition at the Kyoto Tokyu Hotel.
In 2009, participated in the New Year's Tableware Exhibition at Takashimaya Nihonbashi, Tokyo.
Since 2013, held solo exhibitions in Nagoya and Kyoto under the title "Maestro Kiko's Ceramic Works."
In 2019, held a solo exhibition at the Hakusanson Hashimoto Kansetsu Memorial Museum.
In 2023, awarded the Buyer's Prize at the National Traditional Crafts Exhibition.