Nature, Tradition and Innovation: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Gordon Brodfuehrer Collection

“Mingei International was delighted to host the first public viewing of this important San Diego collection of contemporary Japanese ceramics. Each object, from platters and vases to sake and tea cups, bears a profound connection to and dialogue with nature. Our museum visitors enjoyed learning about the ancient kiln sites and techniques as they are used and practiced today, and that these traditions are still thriving.”
– Christine Knoke, Director of Exhibitions and Chief Curator, Mingei International Museum

Bold and sculptural, innovative and organic…

This exhibition 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 mingeimovement, 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.

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