We are delighted to present a two-person exhibition by Keiko Namiyosegama and Tomoko Yanashita.
Some of you may already be familiar with Namiyosegama’s work through our permanent displays, and with Yanashita’s through previous special exhibitions and our permanent collection. This time, however, we will be presenting a substantial selection of works by both artists.
Namiyosegama works in Namiyose, Fukui, where she fires Echizen ware using one climbing kiln and two anagama kilns. She carefully selects from a variety of local Echizen clays and varies not only her firing methods but even the types of wood used as fuel, exploring the different colors and expressions that can emerge in the natural ash glaze.
The resulting surfaces range from vivid jade greens to earthy reddish-browns that seem almost to carry the scent of the soil itself. Another striking feature is the brilliant kamashizuku—drops of natural glaze formed in the intense heat of the kiln. I am also particularly fond of her simple, unpretentious forms, which allow the character of the clay and the dramatic kiln transformations to take center stage.
Yanashita, meanwhile, works primarily with vividly expressive techniques including Kōchi, Raku, white porcelain, and Oribe. Her meticulous craftsmanship is complemented by highly imaginative and finely executed decorative details.
She is also particularly skilled in ceramic sculpture. Even her smallest figures are filled with expression, and together with the inherent qualities of the ceramic materials, they possess a fascination and beauty that could only belong to sculpture made from clay.
This sensitivity extends even to the smallest details of her simpler vessels, helping to create the gentle, warm atmosphere that characterizes her work.
The two artists work with completely different techniques, yet when their pieces are placed together, they seem to bring out the best in one another. I believe they make a wonderful pairing.
The exhibition will feature a generous selection of outstanding works by both artists.
We very much hope you will come and see the exhibition!
