Genkaku-Sadamitsu Sugimoto solo exhibition

Following “An Evening with Genkaku Sadamitsu Sugimoto at Nogizaka Shin,” held this March, we are delighted to present a solo exhibition by Genkaku Sadamitsu Sugimoto.

When one hears that an artist creates ceramics with wabi-sabi at the heart of his practice, it can be easy to imagine something rather conservative. Sugimoto, however, is constantly searching for new discoveries, his eyes sparkling with curiosity as he strives to create something better. And this pursuit extends far beyond ceramics, encompassing everything from Zen painting to the development of new materials using wood.

He is also an extraordinarily passionate and logical thinker. I am continually overwhelmed by his ideas, his ability to bring them to life, and the sheer speed at which he does so.

For this exhibition, Sugimoto will present his recently perfected Madara ware, as well as a newly refined version of his Chōjirō Black. Unfortunately, the new Chōjirō Black works were not completed in time to be included in the exhibition catalogue.

We are told that the Zen master Daiki once said that Chōjirō’s black Raku lies at the very heart of wabi-sabi, so I imagine these works hold a particularly special significance for Sugimoto.

This will be the first time in approximately eight years that he has unveiled new Chōjirō Black works.

I am so excited that I can hardly sleep...

The exhibition will also feature an extensive variety of tea wares, flower vessels, sake wares, and tableware in a wide range of styles, together with sculptures and Zen paintings.

Please come and see them!

Unfortunately, due to the ongoing situation surrounding COVID-19, we have decided to ask Sugimoto not to attend the exhibition in person.

So, as a way of saying, “I’m sorry I can’t be there,” Sugimoto has generously offered to give a Buji sake cup to every customer who makes a purchase during the exhibition.

Yes, really!

We will prepare plenty, but should we run out, additional cups will be made available for collection at the gallery at a later date.