Kazunori Ohnaka 'Medium Black Vase I'

Dimensions - H 9cm x W 10cm

Materials - Shigaraki "信楽" clay

Method - Hand-built, layering of clay and glaze upon a half-dry base using a brush, sponge, or by hand

Care instructions - Gently hand wash using a brush or sponge; pieces can hold water, but waterproof inserts are recommended to protect the work long term

Description

Kazunori Ohnaka makes remarkable works with highly intricate surfaces, finished textures catching the light in an effortlessly graceful way. To achieve this texture, he starts with a base of Shigaraki clay, applying multiple layers of glaze and clay, using a brush, sponge, or his hands. The result is utterly captivating in its coarse yet glimmering finish. 

The simplicity of their forms accentuates the complexity of the final texture, tracing smooth curves and angled openings. His distinctive clay and firing process achieves this aged, relic-like surface and asserts the pieces' instant invaluableness. Exploring delicate themes of decay, many of Kazunori’s works have either subtle chips on the brim of the vessel or bold, jagged bases as if they have been irrevocably damaged. 

Despite weathered appearances, all pieces have finely made, functional forms, with his shattered teapots possessing hidden flat bases, as to still hold a flower. Kazunori believes in his work as a collaboration between the creator and the user, the forms only being complete when explored and shared. 

About the Artist

Kazunori Ohnaka is a ceramic artist who was born in 1971 and lives and works in Yamaguchi, Japan. He began studying ceramics in 2000, soon dedicating his life to his work. His practice is influenced by ancient Japanese objects and the traditional Japanese aesthetic concept ‘Yūgen ’, a word that originated in China, which translates as ‘mysterious profundity’. He seeks to encourage the viewer to engage with this notion, utilising their imagination to experience an object’s latent beauty. 

Read more about Kazunori's practice and view his full collection...