Modern Bizen craftsman Oe Hitori, who carries the memories of earth and fire

After training for six years at the Bizen ware Rokusei pottery manufacturer Tokeido, Oe Kazuto began working as an artist in Bizen, Okayama in 2011. In 2015, he moved his studio to Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture, where he continues to produce unglazed, Yakishime pieces, including those using the "Hidasuki" technique, which involves wrapping the pottery in straw before firing. While carrying on tradition, his pieces incorporate modern, sharp forms and are highly regarded as vessels that mature with use, conveying the memories of earth and fire to the hand.