Japanese Contemporary Ceramics

High Heat, Cool Sculpture: Seven Kiln Masters of Japan

Mangrove Coast: Pattern and Form in South Florida’s Shoreline

The forms and surfaces of Japan’s master ceramists are firmly rooted in the earth. Works by the seven contemporary masters in this exhibition are at once spectacular and subtle. These artists extend classic styles and techniques from ongoing traditions of China and Japan where nature is the cornerstone of culture, philosophy and religion.

Ceramics is one of the most respected art forms in the East, with roots dating from before Neolithic times. Japan’s Jomon pottery from this period is among the oldest examples of clay ware that incorporate pressed design. Its elements continue to influence current practice.

Naturally occurring designs in land, water and flora have been pervasive in Eastern arts, and remain at the core of contemporary Japanese ceramics. This exhibition pairs clay with photographic images of natural patterns from the shoreline.

We encourage you to explore the connections between these two media in representing the complexity and beauty of the landscape. These works show a deep respect for and appreciation of nature’s rhythms, layers, colors and self-organizing forces. Across cultures and continents the spirit of place continues as a central theme uniting art and tradition.

The master clay artists in the exhibition are Yamada Hikaru, Hoshino Kayoko, Matsui Kosei, Wada Morihiro,  Fujino Sachiko, Hoshino Satoru and Sakiyama Takayuki. Photographs are by Barry Fellman.

We are grateful to Carol and Jeffrey Horvitz for their tireless efforts to bring this important genre of contemporary Japanese art to the west, and for inviting us to organize this exhibition of signature works from their collection.