Koichi Onozawa 'Kuro Vessel V'

Dimensions - L 21cm x W 21cm x H 8.3cm 

Material - Stoneware

Method - Tōtai Shikki (the process of applying layers of lacquer to the surface of a fired ceramic piece)

Care - Wash gently with warm water and a mild dish soap

Description

Koichi’s pieces possess a gentle elegance, as light falls and ripples across the polished surfaces. His vessels seek to express the integration of primitive beauty in modernity through their forms, reminiscent of the ancient Yayoi pottery of Japan. 

His work achieves a deep understanding of technique through his use of Tōtai Shikki, which involves applying layers of lacquer to a fired ceramic piece. Initially, Koichi applies four different decorative slips in 5 successive layers, later polishing them to reveal these multiple surfaces. He then applies several thin coats of lacquer and polishes the works again, resulting in a complex and expressive finish through subtle changes in colour and texture. 

He says: “My work combines the distinct, hard texture of ceramics with the deep luster and functional properties of lacquer.” Though seemingly weightless in their balanced appearance, Koichi’s pieces hold a surprising weight and density to their form. Through traditional Japanese materials and methods, he achieves a new and unique mode of expression. 

About the Artist

Koichi Onozawa is a successful studio ceramicist from Nakagawa, Tochigi Prefecture. He grew up in Tokyo, where he studied economics, and soon turned his hand to ceramics. He graduated from a prestigious ceramic school in Tajimi City in 2008 with a degree in ceramic design, and soon moved to rural Nakagawa in 2011, where he still practices today. Here, he started creating more functional ware, influenced by the local rice and pottery trade. Koichi practices in ceramics as he feels the equality of people is connected by sensation and emotion when perceiving beautiful objects. 

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