Momoyama ware, which emerged during the vibrant culture of the tea ceremony in the Middle Ages, was born with a uniquely Japanese aesthetic. Momoyama ware is the origin of Mino ware, and its beauty and spirituality continue to greatly influence the ceramic world today.
Ryotaro Kato, as the eighth-generation head of the Kobeigama Kiln, a family kiln with over 200 years of history in the birthplace of Mino ware, engages with Momoyama ware head-on, continuing to challenge the possibilities in fusing traditional techniques with modern expressions. In his work, one can sense combination of deep reverence for his ancestors and a strong sense of mission in forging his own path.
In this exhibition, we showcase Ryotaro Kato’s latest works, including his captivating tea bowls. Please enjoy the world of art where human craftsmanship resonates with the natural flames of the kiln.
Exhibition Dates: 6th (Fri) – 14th (Sat) December 2024
Artist in Attendance & Tea Ceremony: 6th (Fri) & 7th (Sat) December
Venue: HULS Gallery – Duxton Hill
Opening Hours: 11am – 7pm *Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
About Teicha, or offering tea:
On the two days when the artist is in attendance, Ryotaro Kato will personally serve tea using tea bowls he has created. This is a rare opportunity to experience both Ryotaro’s works and the hospitality of the Japanese tea ceremony, while enjoying conversation with the artist. We invite you to join us for this very special occasion.
- Two seats will be available in each teicha session, for customers who have purchased works by Ryotaro Kato.
- During busy times, there may be a time limit for the tea ceremony.
- The event details may change. Please check this website or our social media for the latest updates.
Ceramic Artist Ryotaro Kato
Ryotaro Kato, the eighth-generation head of Kobeigama Kiln, engages head-on with the tradition of Mino Momoyama ware. He specializes in creating tea bowls, along with Shino, Seto-guro, and Oribe ceramics, all of which he fires in an ana-gama or “cave kiln” he constructed himself. In addition to these traditional techniques, he actively explores the fusion of calligraphy and ceramics, as well as collaborations with diverse materials.
Recognized as a leading figure in the future of Mino, Ryotaro was honored with the “2023 Japan Ceramic Society Award,” which is presented to the most outstanding ceramic artist of the year.
1974 Born as the eldest son of the seventh Kobei Kato and grand son of Takuo Kato
2000 Graduated Master Ceramics course in Craft of Arts, Kyoto City University of Arts
2001 Entered the family business, Kobeigama Kiln
2014 The ninth Paramita Ceramics Award Exhibition at the Paramita Museum
2015 Succeeded the eighth generation of the Kobeigama Kiln
2016 Kobeigama History Exhibition at the Furukawa Museum of Art
2018 Dedicated Sansai Tenmoku for tea ceremony by So-oku Sen as the memorial service to complete the Chukondo of Kofukuji Temple
2021 Gifu Prefecture Arts and Culture Encouragement Award
2024 The Japan Ceramic Society Award
