Yukiko TsuchiyaYukiko Tsuchiya

First solo exhibition and the path of ceramics

Yukiko Tsuchiya held her first solo exhibition at Gallery Ichibankan in Momochihama in 2000. She initially taught herself pottery, but later took on Takashi Nakazato as his apprentice and relearned the basics. Yukiko 's pottery studio is located in Hamasaki, Karatsu City, and she built her own kiln, Yukiko Kiln . She later met her husband, Eiji Tsuchiya, head chef of the famous Ginza restaurant Robata , and after getting married, they run a cooking school and restaurant in Karatsu. Yukiko makes the tableware, and her husband prepares the food using ingredients from Karatsu.

Her works incorporate traditional Karatsu ware techniques, but also have their own unique beauty and technique. They are especially valued in the world of Japanese cuisine, particularly tea ceremony and kaiseki cuisine, and she runs Yukikogama together with her husband.

Unique style and evaluation

Since his first solo exhibition, his matte black Karatsu ware has been highly praised. Although other artists have also tried their hand at black Karatsu ware, his works have a vivid and unique texture. His original Akane Karatsu glaze has also attracted attention, and the pink glaze reflects his individuality.

Another distinctive feature of his work is the way he attaches the handles to his mugs. He incorporates a technique called pooling, which he learned from his teacher, Takashi Nakazato , and this gives the base of the handle a unique shape that is different from that of other artists. The handles are plump and slightly thick, and while his style is influenced by Takashi Nakazato, he also has his own unique personality, which has earned him a lot of support.

Yukiko 's personality and works have been well received and are helping to spread the appeal of Karatsu ware to the world. We will be keeping an eye on her future endeavors.