Mr. Tsujinaka, a ceramic artist based in Ibaraki, creates simple yet profoundly beautiful white pottery. This is our first time featuring his work in our store. We had the pleasure of speaking with him about his creative process and inspirations.
Mr. Tsujinaka’s pottery begins with a careful balance between form and how it feels when held. He considers weight as an integral part of the design.
"I explore the right weight for each piece, adjusting the shape and feel in my hands as I work."
Some pieces have a reassuring weight, while others fit gently into the palm. The weight itself becomes a comforting presence for the user. With a deep respect for craftsmanship, he meticulously shapes each piece, embracing the unique charm that comes from how it feels to hold.
Originally studying oil painting at university, Mr. Tsujinaka was drawn to the art of shaping clay and decided to leave school to pursue pottery. He trained in Mashiko, Tochigi, honing his skills and knowledge to establish his own distinctive style.
"Clay has the potential to take on any form, yet sometimes, it refuses to become one. That unpredictability is what makes pottery so fascinating and what keeps me creating endlessly."
One of his signature techniques is carbonization, where he smokes the pottery with firewood during firing. This process transforms red clay into a deep, rich black while softening the glaze into a gentle, warm white. He also carefully designs the foot of each piece, leaving more exposed clay to highlight its natural texture details that reflect his dedication to craftsmanship.
The pottery making process begins with numerous sketches on paper. From there, a few designs are selected and brought to life on the wheel, allowing Mr. Tsujinaka to explore their three-dimensional expressions.
"If a form doesn’t feel quite right, I return to paper and pen. By continuously refining the balance between the image in my mind and the shape that emerges, I gradually discover the true essence of each piece."
This process transforming lines into tangible forms is the same even for standard plates. Through countless repetitions and careful refinement, his unique artistic identity naturally finds its way into each vessel.
Mr. Hideo Tsujinaka, who actively participates in various pottery markets and craft fairs, creates beautifully crafted pieces that are not only visually stunning but also incredibly functional. Alongside his work, he finds inspiration in the gentle presence of his beloved cats, and his creations are imbued with warmth and a sense of quiet companionship that seamlessly blend into everyday life.
All of Mr. Tsujinaka’s works are crafted entirely on the wheel, with simple shapes that possess a soft expression. Over time, these pieces gain a sense of attachment, inviting a deeper connection with their users. Whether for Japanese or Western cuisine, these versatile pieces enhance any dish. They promise to add a touch of richness to the everyday moments in life.
Click here for Hideo Tsujinaka's works
