About

Form, pattern, and texture—these are the significant elements of my work. Through the paper resist technique, I am always exploring an infinite variety of combinations of clay and slip that maximize the appeal of these elements.

I design and hand-cut distinct paper patterns for each artwork. Then, using the ceramic body of the piece as a canvas, I lay out these paper patterns on it. After applying the original slip or glaze slip (which I make) over it, I peel off the patterns. Before the bisque and the final firing, I add the finishing touches carefully and repeatedly by hand. 

In my work, I make two-dimensional patterns look three-dimensional through the placement of the design on the organic curve. The asymmetry and dynamic composition in my work was influenced by my experience of studying Japanese Middle Age art on folding screens, ink paintings, sliding screen paintings, and illustrated scrolls in my early days as an art history student. 

I was born in Tokyo and raised in Yokohama, Japan. In my final year as an art history student at university, I decided to enroll in a design school, which opened the way to my creativity. Following design school, I began my career as an industrial designer. Then, I completed a master’s degree in industrial design. While working as an industrial designer again in Tokyo, I encountered the world of clay and started learning hand-building at a ceramic studio. After moving to the United States in 2005, I began learning wheel throwing. Since then, I have been enjoying and challenging my creativity in my studio in Orange County, CA. 
 

 

Awards
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2023
First Place Ceramics / Beverly Hills Art Show (Fall Show), Beverly Hills, CA
3rd Place / All Media 2023, Irvine, CA
2022
Best in Ceramics / Tempe Festival of the Arts Fall show, AZ
Third Place Ceramics / Beverly Hills Art Show (Spring Show), Beverly Hills, CA
2020
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