Cork-Rim Round Plate, Medium White — Shigaraki

Born in Kusatsu City, Shiga Prefecture, in 1970. After graduating from the Faculty of Commerce at Osaka Gakuin University, I worked for a kimono manufacturer in Kyoto, but my passion for craftsmanship led me to pursue pottery. I completed the Design Course at the Shiga Prefectural Shigaraki Ceramic Research Institute in 1995 and the Small Wheel Course in 1996, studying under Mr. Nobuo Furutani. In 2005, I became independent in Shigaraki and continue to create pottery today.

I have my own studio and shop, "PLUS LAGO," in Shigaraki. "PLUS LAGO" comes from "lago," the Spanish word for "lake," reflecting Lake Biwa, the symbol of Shiga Prefecture. The shop also features handicrafts by other artists from Shiga Prefecture, showcasing the region's charm.

While based on traditional Shigaraki ware techniques, my designs are characterized by their contemporary sensibility and playfulness. My representative "Cork Series" pieces have the texture of real cork, yet offer the weight and feel unique to ceramics.