Chika Kato

Glass sculptor

©︎Yoshitada Koike

Fleeting moments frozen in glass

Chika creates glass sculptures that capture temporary everyday moments
She enjoys the element of surprise that comes with kiln work
Her pieces are inspired by her childhood fascination with the transformation of water

Chika Kato discovered her passion for glass art soon after she began studying at Kobe Design University in 2012. "The transparency and delicacy of glass caught my attention, especially as it reminded me of natural changes like water turning into ice, frost or snow," she says. Kiln work became Chika's main interest because it allows for unexpected, spontaneous effects. By experimenting with firing temperatures and glass granularity, she learnt how these factors influence the material, which helped her expand her artistic range. After completing a doctoral programme in art and design at Kobe Design University in 2022, Chika continued developing her unique aesthetic. Her work today explores the balance between fragility and strength, inspired by the beauty of both nature and glass art.

Interview

©︎Yoshitada Koike

Why did you choose to become a glass sculptor?: At first, I planned to study ceramics, but I fell in love with the unpredictable nature of glass and its melting process. Glass is often seen as fragile, but I want to show its delicate beauty that is rich in expression.
Why is the theme of water central to your work?: As a child, I was fascinated by small moments in nature, such as frost turning the grass white, breath melting icy windows, snowflakes disappearing instantly, and bubbles trapped in ice. I did not understand how these phenomena worked, but they felt magical. These memories have stayed with me up to this day.
What is your creative process?: My process is very instinctive. I let my hands guide me and see what happens. My favourite moment is carefully breaking the refractory plaster after firing the glass. Up until then, I cannot really see how the piece is going to turn out. I love this element of surprise.
How do you define your work?: My works reflect my intention to capture everyday moments that do not last very long. I want to give them a chance to be preserved through time and memory. My aim is to create objects that challenge the fragility of glass, surprise people and leave a lasting impression.

Chika Kato is a rising star: she began her career in 2016