Mizuyo Yamashita

Ceramicist

©Yu Fujiwara

©Mizuyo Yamashita

A rewarding craft of patience

Mizuyo conveys the grace and serenity of her native Japan through her ceramics
She is inspired by London's unique cultural openness
Her pieces carry meaning in their tiny details

Mizuyo Yamashita delicately explores subtleties in form, texture and colour through clay, still life compositions. "I recall the exact moment I decided to devote myself to ceramics. I fell in love with the Grayson Perry's pots in the New Labour exhibition at Saatchi Gallery in 2001," she says. Until then, and while living in Japan, Mizuyo used to buy handmade pottery without really knowing much about what went into making it. "Now that I am the one at the wheel, I have learned just how much time, care and technique it truly takes to make ceramics," she explains. Today, Mizuyo uses traditional techniques to innovate object functions and incorporates lacquer to create texture effects in her pieces.

Interview

©Yu Fujiwara

Has London influenced your work?: London’s diverse cultural landscape has been integral in developing my aesthetic. The exchange of ideas, the city openness and unique environment have allowed me to blend and expose my Japanese background to different stimuli, techniques and philosophies.
What draws you to ceramics?: It allows me to focus on the tiniest of details, which requires patience and delicacy. This engages me in a slow and thoughtful process. My work is about balance and contemplation, as well as the awareness of being connected with different cultures, as it is a craft practised everywhere.
Do you have any advice for new ceramicists?: Be patient, stay open and curious, and surround yourself with those who encourage and inspire you. It takes time to master the craft – even years later, I am still learning. It is a long journey, but certainly a deeply rewarding one.
Why does the process require so much patience?: It is a long and elaborate process. The shaping, drying, firing and glazing can take weeks to complete. It requires patience and an ability to embrace and accept unexpected results. The outcome is priceless, as it reflects the purpose and the maker’s vision.

Mizuyo Yamashita is a master artisan: she began her career in 2002 and she started teaching in 2017