Breathing Life into the Guardian Spirit of Shōki
Ceramic Artist Mizuki Yoshida
In a workshop nestled in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, ceramic artist Mizuki Yoshida continues to create sculptures of Shōki, the protective deity.
Shōki, originating from Chinese Taoism, is a god of warding off evil. His long beard, official robes, and sword embody a powerful presence that has been revered in Japan for centuries.
Shōki image by Sesshū, Edo Period
(Source: ColBase https://colbase.nich.go.jp)
During her university days, Yoshida was captivated by the commanding presence and dignity of Shōki statues adorning Kyoto’s machiya rooftops. She dedicated herself to preserving Shōki culture through her ceramic creations.
Yoshida worked tirelessly to establish a Shōki Shrine within Gojō Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine, known for its connections to pottery.
The life-sized Shōki statue at the shrine was crafted by Yoshida during her university years. Employing traditional techniques and refining her approach through trial and error, she successfully brought it to completion.
Today, she revives traditional Shōki statues through modern ceramic artistry, meticulously crafting each piece by hand or using molds.
Yoshida’s Shōki statues retain their traditional dignified appearance, yet possess a softness and warmth unique to ceramics, giving each piece its own distinct charm.
Her workshop, located near Kiyomizu Temple, is part of a shared space where young ceramic artists collaborate and share kilns in a lively and friendly environment.
Beyond her craft, Yoshida actively promotes Shōki culture, playing a vital role in the annual Shōki Festival at the Shōki Shrine, preserving its rich traditions for future generations.
Yoshida’s Shōki statues are not only designed for rooftops but also make striking additions to entryways and living spaces. They combine a powerful presence to protect families and a quiet elegance that brings traditional beauty into daily life. As tiled roofs become less common, Yoshida’s Shōki statues find new relevance in contemporary living.
Mizuki Yoshida - Ceramic Art History
- 2014: Graduated from Kyoto University of Art and Design, Department of Fine and Applied Arts, Ceramics Course
- 2016: Completed Master’s in Comprehensive Design, Kyoto University of Art and Design
- 2017: Completed Ceramic Shaping Course at Kyoto Prefectural Ceramic Technical College
Exhibition History
- 2015: Solo Exhibition "Vessels of the Land" (Uno-ie)
- 2016: Solo Exhibition "Once in a Lifetime – Mizuki Yoshida Ceramic Exhibition" (Shimogamo-tei)
- 2017: Kyoto University of Art and Design Alumni Exhibition "ing... Handcrafted Gifts" (GALERIE h2o)
- 2018: Group Exhibition "Same Kiln, Different Perspectives – Vessels" (Gallery Kuri)
- 2018: Solo Exhibition "Mizuki Yoshida Ceramic Exhibition" (Daimaru Kyoto Store)
- 2019: Kyoto University of Art and Design Alumni Exhibition "ing... Bowls for Beginners" (GALERIE h2o)
- 2022: Solo Exhibition "Mizuki Yoshida Ceramic Exhibition" (Hōsen-in)
