The Beauty of Kiyomizu Ware: Where Tradition Meets Contemporary Artistry
In a quiet Kyoto neighborhood lined with traditional townhouses, Tosen Kiln stands as a place where time-honored techniques and modern aesthetics harmonize. Here, ceramic artist Takahiro Okayama works daily, creating handmade pieces that reflect both heritage and innovation.
Known for his ability to balance the spirit of traditional Kiyomizu ware with a contemporary sensibility, Okayama continues to redefine what Kyoto ceramics can be.
Depth and Beauty in Color and Form
Born and raised in Kyoto, Takahiro Okayama has dedicated himself to ceramic art through years of study and passion. His creations may appear simple at first glance, but they hold a quiet depth that captivates.
Using vivid glazes—such as soft pinks and icy blues—his pottery often features crackled textures that resemble frozen water, with each piece displaying a unique expression. The elegant balance between color and shape gives his work both everyday functionality and artistic charm.
Fine Craftsmanship from a Bright Studio
In a meticulously organized workshop filled with natural light, Okayama and his young team of artisans bring energy and precision to every step of their pottery-making process.
The sound of the wheel spinning, the tactile rhythm of kneading clay, the intense heat of the kiln—all are part of the studio's daily life. Okayama pours his focus into each piece, guided by hand and heart from clay selection to glaze formulation and firing. His dedication is evident in the exceptional quality of every finished product.
“I want to create pottery that quietly enriches everyday life,” he says—and that heartfelt intent shines through each handmade work.
Carrying on the Tradition, Embracing New Challenges
While honoring the traditions of Kyo ware, Takahiro Okayama continues to explore new forms of expression. His pieces feel at home in modern living spaces, adding warmth and beauty to daily rituals.
With every use, you’ll recall the scene of his studio, the skilled hands at work, and the spirit of care embedded in the making—bringing a quiet richness to your life.
Artist Profile | Takahiro Okayama
- Born in Kyoto, 1976
- 1999: Graduated from Seian University of Art and Design (Fiber Arts major)
- 2000: Completed Ceramics Program at Kyoto Prefectural Technical College for Ceramics
- 2001: Completed Advanced Ceramics Research Program at same college
- 2002: Completed Ceramic Course at "Miyako Waza Juku" at Kyoto Municipal Industrial Research Institute
- 2007: Exhibited at ALTIGIANATO2007 in Italy
- 2008: Certified as a "Kyomono Traditional Craft Artisan"
- 2013 & 2016: Solo exhibitions at Takashimaya Kyoto
- 2014: Selected as a "Master of the Future"
- 2015: Collaborated with Tully's Coffee for "Kyo Mag" series
- 2018 & 2021: Joint exhibitions “Ceramics and Lacquer” with Yuri Kato
Member of the Kyoto Art Association
Instructor at Kyoto City Institute of Industrial Technology for traditional craft education
KOTOPOTTER Owner
Masatoshi Yokoyama
With over a decade of experience in traditional crafts including Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware, I work closely with Kyoto artisans to bring new life to handmade Japanese ceramics.
In 2024, I launched KOTOPOTTER—an online shop dedicated to showcasing the beauty of handmade, traditional pottery from Kyoto to the world.