[Ceramic artist: Hiroki Nakao] Mixing colors, a new world

Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture.

In this city, which is one of Japan's leading pottery arts centers, there is a ceramic artist who weaves a unique world of color.

This time we would like to introduce you to Hiroki Nakao.

The works that Nakao creates are a harmonious blend of original colors and shapes that are close to everyday life, and are filled with a softness and depth that is somewhat reminiscent of impressionist paintings.

I met Nakao-san at the Shigaraki Pottery Market.

Even though the venue was bustling with people from the morning, Nakao's booth was particularly crowded with people and attracted many people.

It was very impressive to see him carefully explaining his work to each person, and when we asked him about his work he calmly replied, "I paid particular attention to this part."

I remember seeing the smile that flashed across his face as he talked about the background of the production and the moment when the colors were born, and feeling that I wanted to hear more from him.

When you pick up Nakao's work, the first thing that strikes you is the soft colors that fill your heart.

A gradation of pale yellow, soft blue, and colors that blend together like a blur.

And the deep colors tighten up the soft look.

The vessels have a mysterious charm that combines elegance and simplicity, as if they are gently trapping particles of light.

These glazes are apparently the result of repeated trial and error.

The more trial and error that goes into a piece, the deeper it becomes.

The workshop where these colors are created is located in the mountains, a short distance from the city of Shigaraki.

Surrounded by nature, it is an environment so quiet that you can hear the sounds of insects if you listen carefully.

The workshop, which was renovated from a Japanese-style house, has a nostalgic atmosphere, and it's amazing to think that such modern and original works are born here.

The important element that supports the production is "soil."

Nakao trusts Yamanaka Toudo, a long-established clay shop that has supported Shigaraki potters for many years. They are "clay experts" who blend and develop clay upon request.

Nakao has also been asked to blend clay here, and he sincerely faces the clay that forms the skeleton of his works, sometimes coming to terms with it and sometimes making new discoveries, as he shapes his own worldview.

Nakao's pottery is born from the combination of his sensitivity, honed in the rich nature of Shigaraki, and the colors he has arrived at after countless trials.

It is a presence that gently accompanies your life and at the same time gently gives energy to the person who uses it.

The background of these memorable vessels, which seem to be cut out from a landscape, reflects Nakao's sincere approach to craftsmanship.