Nature Tradition & Innovation

This book accompanies the exhibition Nature, Tradition, and Innovation: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Gordon Brodfuehrer Collection, which celebrates more than 40 contemporary Japanese ceramists who are inspired by the natural world. Mountains, waterfalls, ocean shores, and bamboo groves are depicted in a rich variety of forms comprising 62 ceramic works—from exquisite flower vases and serene tea bowls to whimsical sake cups and robust platters—revealing the earthly beauty of Japanese ceramics. Select pieces are paired with digital photographs, taken by photographer Taijiro Ito, that highlight their poetic connection to nature.

The featured ceramists are closely associated with many of Japan’s traditional pottery centers and are supporters of the mingei movement, in which objects of unsurpassed beauty are made for everyday use.

The exhibition is organized by the Mingei International Museum in San Diego, California, and curated by Christine Knoke, director of exhibitions and chief curator. The national tour is organized by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC.