Oroshi-cho in Toki City is known as a production center of Tokkuri (Japanese sake server). As you walk down a narrow alley lined with houses, a traditional “Anagama” kiln (ancient pottery kiln) and chimney suddenly catch your eye. In the studio next to it, Mr. Kato Yasuyuki is working on a piece today. Kato was born in Oroshi-cho to a family that ran a Kami-e (overglaze painting) business, and he took up the family tradition quite naturally. Overglaze painting is a build to order industry. As he painted pictures on ceramics commissioned by a distributor, his passion for creating works of art began to grow. “No matter how beautifully I painted, I could never get my name on it. I wanted to create my own works as I liked” he said. The time was just before the bubble economy. At the age of 49, he started his career as an artist late in life. However, he was a beginner in all processes except painting. He worked on the clay whenever he could, alongside his daily work and went to many exhibitions on weekends to see potteries. He taught himself the techniques and opened the gallery “Genpoan” at the age of 60.

He reflected on what his own identity was and arrived at the technique of overglaze painting that he had been involved in for decades. He established the style of “Irodori Hananishiki,” which applies delicate overglaze painting to Minoyaki. “Irodori Hananishiki” adds decorations such as red painting and “Gosu” (a type of pattern) to unique shapes. For example, his incense burners, which are made by piling up clay strings, are so lively that they seem as if to come to life at any moment. To this, he applies an elegant “Hagi” pattern, representative of classical designs, in gold leaf, illuminating the beauty of both modernity and tradition. On the other hand, “Shimeyaki”, which is fired at high temperatures without glaze allow you to enjoy a unique unexpected texture caused by kiln changes. It is then decorated with arabesque patterns and Japanese pampas grass in gold and silver. “I don’t want to make the same thing as others, and I don’t want to mass-produce. I always want to create something new. I’m just doing what I want,” he says with a laugh. Kato’s works are so wide-ranging that it is hard to believe that they were created by the same artist. His inspiration comes from his daily 5km walks. The scents of the seasons, the shapes of clouds, the swaying trees, and the people passing by, everything he sees is a fragment of an idea.

Genpoan serves as a café and gallery. In addition to exhibiting his own works, he also displays the works of young ceramic artists. Furthermore, he has been actively involved in exchanges with the younger generation, teaching ceramics at Gifu Prefectural Toki Koryo High School for more than 10 years. In addition, every December, the “Kiln Firing” event is held to fire up the “Anagama” kilns, for “Kamayaki”, taking turns to watch over the fire for a week and interacting with many people during that time. “During this period, it is an opportunity to meet many people. I am grateful for all the encounters.” Making a living as a ceramic artist is not an easy path. However, he does not want young people to give up on their dreams, so he is trying to pave the way forward and create a path for them to follow. Now, Mr. Kato has a new vision. He is now working on a new project, which is the culmination of “Irodori Hananishiki,” a more dynamic design that incorporates all the painting techniques he possesses. “I’m thrilled to finally be able to see the work I want to express” he says. “I think this might be my prime” he says with a carefree smile and a twinkle in his eye. He is considering holding a solo exhibition, as he still wants to test his skills. At the age of 80, he continues to confront himself and embraces change. His unpretentious works are sure to become a guidepost for future artists.