Charming . Unique
Ceramics by Kate
I left England aged 21 on a one-way ticket and a trusting curiosity to unearth my life’s passion and purpose.
I found it in the world of art and clay in Japan.
A place where simple handmade vessels are naturally celebrated
and the mastering of an art innately revered.
This said, Japanese aesthetics are often unpredictable in their expression of beauty.
Well known to be subtle, refined, austere and poetic.
Yet they are often childlike, cluttered and chaotic.
I sense these paradoxes are why after 30 years I am still enamoured by the arts , the cultural nuances and the wonderful people of Japan.
I have developed my own style through apprenticeship and a relatively isolated Hokkaido life.
Aspiring to create that which fuses my appreciation of the old and the new.
Forms that are strong and easy to use.
Rustic yet elegant.
Soulful and quirky.
There is such a wide variety of shapes and sizes to play with in the world of ‘Utsuwa’.
Food is made and served artfully and playfully
and the plates and bowls are often as important as the cuisine.
This gives such satisfaction and meaning to creating pots here.
Beauty speaks to us all,
though ultimately the user of a piece determines its value and charm.
Japanese customers delight for claywork keeps me inspired
and I feel honoured to work as a ceramic artist here.
You will find me creating in my studio during the spring, summer and autumn months;
tending to the gallery and cafe and appreciating the seasonal foods and local lifestyle.
The winter months I escape the cold to explore new places around the world.
Hoping to enrich my taste and keep my work fresh.
