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Japan is a country with a marvelous
ceramic heritage, but I am not sure if many people are
really aware of this! From the medieval pottery centres
such as Shigaraki and Tanba (in Shiga ken and Kyoto
fu, respectively), to the different styles and techniques
imported by Korean 'slave' potters, to the development
by a continuation and adjustment of tradition as well
by a series of individual designers. Nowhere in the
world do I feel is there such a rich variety of ceramics
as there is in Japan.
On fist arriving in Japan, this was
apparent to me in the way and containers used for the
display of food: Food isn't simply placed on one plate
and given to you as it is in my home country. It seems
to be more considered, whether that be as a result of
individual input or as an inherited tradition. I'm sure
the thought and preparation that is put into a 'high
class' tea ceremony would amaze most people.
This is not a tradition which I know
much about, but one that is truly Japanese. It is a
history that Japan should be proud to have. (On the
other hand, lets not forget the ugly and prolific use
of concrete which we see in our everyday lives as well!
I don't want to paint an entirely rosy picture of my
experiences!)
Living in a world which is at times
difficult to understand, the visual, aesthetic beauty
that surrounds us has the power bridge cultural barriers
and comfort us. I feel that the arts can cross these
cultural barriers, as we can look and respond directly
to them. It is not necessary to be fluent in any language,
but to respond to the world with the senses we all share.
This, at least, has been my experience, as someone with
a passion and interest in the visual world.
It is an ambition of mine, after I
finish my current job, to have the opportunity to respond
to all these experiences, by producing some work of
my own in Japan. I know for sure that in this way, Japan
has made a deep and lasting impact on me.
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