Breathing Life into the Guardian
Ceramic Artist Mizuki Yoshida
Based in Higashiyama, Kyoto, Japan, ceramic artist Mizuki Yoshida handcrafts sculptures of Shoki—the traditional guardian deity revered for warding off evil.
Shoki originates from Chinese Taoist tradition and is depicted with a flowing beard, official robes, and a drawn sword.
His commanding presence has been beloved in Japan for centuries.
A Lifelong Passion for Shoki
As a university student, Yoshida encountered a Shoki statue atop a traditional machiya roof and was mesmerized by its dignity. She resolved to preserve this heritage through pottery.
She led efforts to establish a Shoki shrine at Gojo Wakamiya Hachiman-gu—known locally as the “Pottery Shrine”—and was instrumental in its realization.
The life-size Shoki statue in the shrine grounds was created by Yoshida during her university years, perfected through traditional techniques and persistent experimentation.
Traditional Strength with a Modern Warmth
Using hand-coiling and casting methods, Yoshida carefully crafts each Shoki sculpture as a unique, handmade ceramic work.
While honoring Shoki’s traditional valor, she infuses her pieces with the natural softness and warmth of ceramic, creating sculptures that resonate in modern interiors.
Perfectly sized for entryways or living rooms, these guardian figures act as “modern protector deities,” offering both artistic beauty and a sense of safety.
Ceramic Community Near Kiyomizu-dera
Yoshida’s studio shares a collaborative workspace and kiln with a community of emerging ceramic artists near Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto.
Together, they refine their skills in a supportive, creative environment, upholding the spirit of traditional Japanese pottery.
She also participates in the annual Shoki Festival, promoting the rich cultural heritage of this guardian deity.
Tradition in Contemporary Life
In an era where traditional roof ornaments are rare, Yoshida’s Shoki sculptures subtly bring the beauty of Japan’s heritage into contemporary settings.
For anyone seeking to integrate tradition into daily life, her works offer a fresh, handmade expression of ceramic art.
Artist Profile | Mizuki Yoshida
- 2014: BFA in Ceramics, Kyoto University of Arts
- 2016: MFA in Interdisciplinary Arts, Kyoto University of Arts Graduate School
- 2017: Advanced Ceramics Program, Kyoto Prefectural Pottery Technical Training School
Selected Exhibitions
- 2015: Solo Exhibition “Vessels of the Land” at Uno House
- 2016: Solo Exhibition “Ichigo Ichie” at Shimogamotei
- 2017: “ing… ‘Palm-Sized Gifts’” at GALERIE h2o
- 2018: Group Exhibition “Phases of the Same Kiln: Vessels” at Gallery Kuri
- 2018: Solo Exhibition at Daimaru Kyoto
- 2018: “ing… ‘Daily Companions’” at GALERIE h2o
- 2019: Group Exhibition “Vessels and Objects” at Gallery Kuri
- 2019: 30th Anniversary Alumni Exhibition at Konan Technical High School
- 2019: “ing… ‘Bowls of the First Step’” at GALERIE h2o
- 2022: Solo Exhibition at Hosen-in
- 2022: Group Exhibition “Ichigo Ichizen” at Hosen-in
KOTOPOTTER Owner
Masatoshi Yokoyama
With over 10 years of experience working with kyoyaki, kiyozuyaki, and other traditional Japanese ceramics.
Collaborating with Kyoto’s kilns and ceramic artists, I deepen my expertise and explore new expressions of handmade pottery.
In 2024, I launched KOTOPOTTER, an e-commerce site specializing in traditional handcrafted pottery from kyoyaki and kiyozuyaki kilns.