The act of destruction
Nakamura Baizan left many masterpieces, having been highly appraised as an expert in tea pottery. His second son is Takuo Nakamura, who we interviewed. He is one of the leading ”Kutani-yaki” artists of today, having created ”his way” through years of creating his works.
”His way” refers to the action of destruction. This is throwing, cutting, and tearing off clay, actions inevitable in ceramic production. ”It is not created, but destroyed.” This is how and where his works begin.
Expression made by coincidence
The shape is formed by applying a traditional method called ”tatara”, pressing slab-shaped clay, and cutting pieces off. Takuo Nakamura told us, ”My job is discovering the exact moment an interesting shape or expression is made by coincidence.”
This is apparent in his work.
They are objets d’art. Pick up a tea bowl, and it will make you wonder how you can drink out of this bowl without dribbling the tea on your clothes.
City where artists and users co-exist
”With my work, it’s good if people can play around with how they use it. Kanazawa is home to both artisans and the people who use the creations.” Nakamura told us.
Gold and silver tones are added to the brownish tone of the baked bowl. He allows nature to define the results of the coloring to some degree as well.
The artist who carries on the tradition of Kutani-yaki has opened new doors. It is hard to judge whether his works are objets d’art or bowls for practical use. Is it necessary to draw a line? Perhaps that is where beauty lies.
