Zenzō Fukushima

Ceramicist

Gerald Le Van-Chau©Michelangelo Foundation

Timeless earthenware

Zenzo was recognized as a Living National Treasure in 2017
Koishiwara ware is an Important Intangible Cultural Property
His work is characterised by usage of local clay and glaze materials

Zenzo Fukushima is the 16th generation master of the Chigaiwa Kiln, a prestigious Koishiwara pottery kiln that has existed in Fukuoka Prefecture for over 300 years. When the folk pottery boom in the mid 1960s produced an abundance of Koishiwara pottery, Zenzo began to explore a new style by developing techniques with Koishiwara materials to revive and preserve this long-standing tradition. His thorough scientific research of Koishiwara clay and glaze materials, combined with his creative efforts, led him to create a distinctive celadon such as the Nakano Geppaku with a pale celestial blue glaze that gives a soft impression. His clean-cut ceramics with modern forms and colour accents are simple yet capture one’s attention with their solid and warm presence.

Interview

Gerald Le Van-Chau©Michelangelo Foundation

Gerald Le Van-Chau©Michelangelo Foundation

When did you start making your work?: I was in the family business making ceramic products, learning techniques during the day and making personal work at night. The biggest advantage I had was that I was able to apply the proper techniques I acquired from product making to my own work.
Are you very particular about the type of clay?: It’s risky to use delicate clay to create beautiful works of art that are in focus. Since removing unwanted materials can be problematic and dangerous, finding the right balance is key. The right clay can only be found by actually using it through a series of repetitions.
What represents a well made piece for you?: It's a piece that instantly looks good the moment it’s out of the kiln. A piece can look good after repeated viewing, but the first inspiration is very important. I’ve been a potter for 40 years, and I have only made about three or four such pieces, maybe once every 10 years.
What advice do you have for aspiring craftspeople?: Seeing many great artworks is really important to be able to discern good works from the bad ones. It’s equally important to learn solid basics and avoid making strange habits in the beginning, as it will help one grow efficiently while learning a craft.

Zenzō Fukushima is a master artisan: he began his career in 1982 and he started teaching in 1995