Masterclass | Ken Matsuzaki | Throwing Chawan

wlc masterclass ken matsuzaki throwing chawan Masterclass | Ken Matsuzaki | Throwing Chawan Ken Matsuzaki

While photographing the Japanese potter Ken Matsuzaki for the Goldmark Gallery 2007 monograph, Jay Goldmark was invited to film Matsuzaki in his studio at his kick wheel throwing Chawan (Teabowls) ‘off the hump’ (from a large, single mound of clay). This is rare footage of one of Japan’s internationally respected potters at work.

Fire, Wood and Clay: What’s in an Aesthetic?

WLC featured image fire wood clay jpg webp Fire, Wood and Clay: What's in an Aesthetic? Ken Matsuzaki

There can be no denying it: there’s something about wood-firing that produces special pots. But what is it about the wood-fired aesthetic (if there even is one) that captivates? Where does our appreciation for it begin? And, perhaps most important of all: is it still relevant today? Is the wood-fired aesthetic right for our age? … Read more

The Art of Ikebana with Rie Day

wlc the art of ikenana 3 jpg webp The Art of Ikebana with Rie Day Ken Matsuzaki

Join Ikebana teacher Rie Day as she works preparing Ken Matsuzki pots for the opening of a major exhibition. She demonstrates Free Style, one of the most recent styles to emerge from Ikenobo School in Kyoto, in conjunction with contemporary environments and tastes.Though there are naturalistic and abstract styles, both use plants in new ways, yet respect the beauty and essential qualities of the materials. Rie also talks about Shoka Style, a simpler style of Ikebana which was established in 18th century. It consists of three main branches expressing life’s perpetual change and renewal, with a focus on a plant’s essence, simply and beautifully.

With over 30 years of experience, Rie Day holds a professor status with Ikenobo Society of Flora Art, Ikenobo’s Headquarters in Kyoto.

Trimmings | A Brief History: ‘Tomobako’ Japanese Boxes

tomobako slate jpg webp Trimmings | A Brief History: 'Tomobako' Japanese Boxes Ken Matsuzaki

In Japan ceramic pots are stored in signed wooden boxes, known as ‘Tomobako’, both for their protection and to display the provenance of the maker.

Presented by British potter Phil Rogers and writer/art critic David Whiting, this video contains archive footage of Japanese potter Ken Matsuzaki signing boxes at his pottery in Japan as well as a demonstration of him tying ribbons around finished boxes during his Goldmark exhibition.

Inspire Me | Ken Matsuzaki | Part 3

in conversation ken matsuzaki pa 2 jpg webp Inspire Me | Ken Matsuzaki | Part 3 Ken Matsuzaki

In this third and final film Ken Matsuzaki looks to the future. He explains how the impact of the Tohoku earthquake on Mashiko and its potters triggered a desire in him to support the young potting community. Innovation and originality, he believes, are key objectives for the young craftsman and cultural exchange can foster this. Ken goes on to discuss his very special relationship with the chawan as a means of expression.