A ceramic artist based in Tajimi, Gifu Prefecture, Ryotaro Kato is the eighth generation of the “Kobeigama” Kiln family. He is deeply passionate about using “ana-gama” (literally, “cave”) kilns and produces mainly Mino tea ceramics in styles such as Shino, Setoguro and Oribe. He is also well versed in the tea ceremony and calligraphy, and conveys the beauty of Japan’s unique culture through his works. While building on tradition, he continues to actively refine his own sensibilities and take on the challenge of new projects.