Kasumi checks the quality work of a teacup at one of the Karatsu
Gama (studio).
Today, Kasumi visited a few pottery gama in Karatsu. Koyozan Gama, Enichi
Gama and Akamizu Gama
Kyozan
Gama
The beautiful showroom housed many traditional pottery with Momoyama
period influence. A strict traditional techniques lasting over 400 years,
a time when the importance of tea ceremony was at its zenith.
The stoneware clay is dug locally. According to sensei, there is minimal
process in preparing the clay. Local impurities are left to give Karatsu
pottery unique body and texture.
Kyozan
gama accepts students and apprentice with strict curriculum lasting 10
years.
This student throws a teacup using a kick wheel. It's just one of a hundred
teacup he must throw per day. He's a two year apprentice.
Enichi
Gama
This gama's pride is their glaze.
One of ash ingredient is collected from an organic rice husk, other rice
husk treated with chemicals will give an undesireable result. The preparation
is meticulous and time consuming.
Akamizu
Gama
Chiharu Kumamoto was a design student and now produces his own style
of pottery in Karatsu.
He has broken away from the tradition and does both sculptural and functional
pieces. He is considered a rebel but insist on his way of pottery.
Photo
of a jar approximatley
18"h x 15"w.
