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Artist Masanori Yamamoto - Dynamic and Rhythmic "Shinogi" Patterned Tableware

Born in Shiga Prefecture in 1987, Masanori Yamamoto grew up in an environment steeped in the traditions of pottery. After graduating from the Ceramic Arts course at Kyoto Seika University's Faculty of Art in 2009, he built a solid foundation in pottery. In 2010, he completed the Small Pottery Wheel course at the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park's Ceramic Art Technical Institute and gained practical experience working for a ceramic manufacturer.

In 2015, he further honed his skills by completing the Clay and Glaze course at the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park's Ceramic Art Technical Institute, acquiring deep knowledge and techniques related to glazes and clay bodies, which he uses to add a unique character to his works. Currently, he continues his ceramic work in Shigaraki-cho, Shiga Prefecture, under the inherited family business name "Kozan-gama" (幸山窯).

Characteristics of Masanori Yamamoto's Works

Masanori Yamamoto's works are characterized by "shinogi" patterns, meticulously hand-carved one by one. The "shinogi" patterns are rhythmic and dynamic, giving the vessels a rich expression. There are three main series: one with diagonal "shinogi" patterns, another called "Nawame" (rope pattern) which features vertical lines with finely carved diagonal fluting in the remaining sections to create a warm, knitted rope-like texture, and the "Hana-shinogi" (flower shinogi) series, which appears as vibrant as blooming flowers.

Masanori Yamamoto's Tableware: A Fusion of Shigaraki Ware Tradition and Unique Sensibility

Masanori Yamamoto's tableware, crafted in the traditional kiln inherited from his grandfather, embodies the legacy of Shigaraki ware while incorporating his unique artistic sensibility. He creates a variety of tableware, including rimmed plates, soup cups, curry plates, yunomi (teacups), and mugs. The "shinogi" pattern can unify a dining table, giving it an elegant touch. His pieces are also microwave and dishwasher safe, combining practical utility for everyday use with aesthetic beauty, and are highly praised for their design that enhances the dishes served. He focuses on preserving the subtle expressions and textures unique to handcrafted items, aiming to provide lightweight and easy-to-handle tableware.