About
Form, pattern, and texture—these are the significant elements of Sugimoto's work. Through the paper-resist technique, she is always exploring an infinite variety of combinations of clay and slip that maximize the appeal of these elements.
She designs and meticulously hand-cuts distinct paper patterns for each artwork. Then, using the ceramic body of the piece as a canvas, she lays out these paper patterns on it. After applying the original slip or glaze slip, which is her own formulation, over it, she peels off the patterns. Before the bisque and the final firing, she repeatedly adds finishing touches with great care, all by hand.
Building on this concept, she has recently been focusing on creating distinctive works by combining different materials and incorporating sculptural elements. Her work reflects a fusion of the techniques she has learned in the United States and her own cultural background. Additionally, her career as an industrial designer and her studies in Japanese art history during university have had a significant influence on her work.
Sugimoto has exhibited her pieces at various venues, including art shows, galleries, group exhibitions, and solo exhibitions, both domestically and internationally. She has also undertaken commissioned work, such as creating pieces for luxury hotels overseas. All these various experiences, along with the influence of the people she meets along the way, continue to shape her artistic practice.
Jury Award / Los Altos Art in the Park, Los Altos, CA
3rd Place / All Media 2023, Irvine, CA
Honorable Mention / Beverly Hills Art Show, Beverly Hills (Fall Show), CA
2019
Honorable Mention / Beverly Hills Art Show (Fall Show), Beverly Hills, CA
Second Place Ceramics / Beverly Hills Art Show (Spring Show), Beverly Hills, CA
Best in Ceramics / Tempe Festival of the Arts Spring show, AZ
2018
Best in Ceramics / Tempe Festival of the Arts Fall show, AZ
Ceramic Category Award / Scottsdale Arts Festival, AZ
2017
Third Place Ceramics / Beverly Hills Art Show (Fall Show), Beverly Hills, CA
2013
Honorable Mention / Beverly Hills Art Show (Fall Show), Beverly Hills, CA
First Place / La Jolla Art and Wine Festival, La Jolla, CA
Honorable Mention / Beverly Hills Art Show (Spring Show), Beverly Hills, CA
First Place Utilitarian Pottery / Indian Wells Art Festival, Indian Wells, CA
2012
First Place Ceramics / Beverly Hills Art Show (Fall Show), Beverly Hills, CA
Solo Exhibition "Form, pattern, and texture” Clay Center of New Orleans, New Orleans LA