Sakiyama Takayuki

Without question ceramics are one of the highlights of Japanese art. The art form that began with a single tea bowl has evolved through the centuries and Japanese artists continue to set themselves apart in showcasing their unique ceramic expertise in ways that are vastly different from their western counterparts. Sakiyama Takayuki is no exception with his brilliance in ceramics… his intricately carved pieces are finished with a unique sand-glaze that he developed and has elegantly mastered over the past several decades.

Takayuki draws his inspiration from the sea, specifically the rugged Pacific Ocean seacoast near his home. The carved and rippling surface patterns in his work reinforce the spiraling nature of his double-walled vessels. Takayuki is able to meld form and surface together to produce objects that are bold and seamless.

Takayuki’s most recent collection is called “Chōtō- Listening to the Wave.” This series is intended to evoke the power and nature of the ocean and its currents. Specifically, the vessels in this collection are intricately carved and finished with Takayuki’s unique sand-glaze. The works remains true to their origins as functional vessels while they convey a highly sculptural quality.

Takayuki graduated from the University of Osaka and opened a ceramic workshop amongst the scenic mountains and shorelines of the Izu Peninsula. The artist sculpts his clay into curvaceous shapes onto which he creates a fine plissé. Over the years, Takayuki has defined and refined his signature features… sculptural vessels in which the interior and exterior are seamlessly joined and covered with a uniquely textured sand-glaze. The movement that Takayuki’s vessels evoke come from his fascination with the tides and waves that are a result of the sea’s natural curves and undulations.

Takayuki takes Japanese inspiration further in that the texture of his vessels’ surfaces echo the raked zen gardens that are commonplace throughout Japan. This is achieved with the special glaze he developed which highlights the intricate designs of the clay’s carvings.