Kosuke Kaneshige
Ceramicist
Bizen, Japan
Sculptural traditions of earth and fire
- Kosuke carries on the tradition of Bizen ware
- He developed his techniques by experimenting on his own
- For him, humility is essential to his approach to craft
Born into a Bizen ware family with 400 years of history, Kosuke Kaneshige was naturally drawn into the world of ceramics from childhood. "I absorbed the craft by closely watching clay preparation, wheel throwing, kiln loading and firing, instead of undertaking a formal apprenticeship," he says. After studying sculpture at Tokyo University of the Arts, Kosuke returned to Bizen and began to explore his own path. His work continues the traditions of Bizen ware, using iron-rich local clay and unglazed firing, while also exploring new possibilities through sculptural objects and innovative forms. He treats clay with deep respect, values every stage of the process and approaches the kiln with humility and the belief that earth and fire help bring each piece to life.
INTERVIEW
I clearly remember playing with clay as a child. I was allowed into the workshop, provided I cleaned up afterwards. Later, when I was studying sculpture in Tokyo, my older brother asked me to come back home. Remembering how much I loved clay, I decided to return to Bizen.
I call the clay itself earth, and not simply clay, because I hold deep affection and respect for it. Preparing and refining this earth is extremely important. When I was a child, my father used to say, 'In our house, earth is more important than rice.'
I enjoy every stage: preparing the clay, forming the work, loading the kiln and firing it. Bizen ware has no glaze or surface painting, so the natural expression of the earth must come through. Each stage is important, and all must work together to create a successful piece.
Do not let conventions limit you. Create what you like in your own way, and you will find many things become clear along the journey. I did not learn techniques by being taught, but by trying things myself. I believe this attitude of learning through doing is one of the most important lessons I received.
Kosuke Kaneshige
Ceramicist
Bizen, Japan
ADDRESS
Address upon request, Bizen, Japan
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
LANGUAGES
Japanese
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