Karatsu Ware from Taku, Japan

KaratsuPots's Shop Announcement

Welcome to the KaratsuPots online shop!
I'm a potter residing in the Gotanbayashi neighborhood of Taku, in Saga Prefecture, Japan, hence the name of my kiln/studio: Gotanbayashi Gama. I make my work using traditional Karatsu techniques and tools, and local materials.

When I started out, I spent most of my time trying to emulate traditional ware. I believe this is one of the best ways to acquire technical skill, especially if you are teaching yourself. Old pots and shards have so much to say if you're listening carefully. I still imitate the 400 year old Ko-Garatsu (Old Karatsu) wares, as these traditional pieces have qualities which transcend the whim of trend. Still, my own personality and aesthetic sense tend to assert themselves, so my work is divided into 2 types: traditional Karatsu ware rooted in the traditional aesthetic, and contemporary Karatsu.

Though I spend most of my time making tea (including tea ceremony) and sake related ware, you will find tableware and decorative items as well. All my glazes are ash and feldspar, with a bit of clay in some cases. I use all non-toxic materials, and though my work is dishwasher and microwave safe, I strongly recommend hand washing.

I have more items at the Karatsupots online store here:

http://www.karatsupots.com/store/index.php?main_page=

More information on Karatsu ware can be found at the Karatsupots website, and the Karatsupots blog, see below for the addresses. Feel free to visit...

Mike
homepage: http://www.karatsupots.com
shop: http://karatsupots.etsy.com
blog: http://karatsupots.blogspot.com