#Japan #Tokyo #Kashima Arts #Bizen Ware #Anjin Abe

Discovering Anjin Abe's Unique Ceramics

Background of the Exhibition

From March 20 to March 29, 2026, Kashima Arts in Kyobashi, Tokyo will host a solo exhibition titled "Anjin Abe Exhibition - Oazuke." This is the fourth exhibition dedicated to the genius of Bizen ware, Anjin Abe, at Kashima Arts and will showcase 48 pieces, including the debut of the "Oazuke Tokkuri".

Anjin Abe, who is celebrating his 88th birthday, has spent decades researching and developing a unique expression in ceramics by integrating vibrant colors of red, blue, yellow, and green into traditional Bizen ware, creating a style he calls "Colored Bizen."

The Exhibition Highlights

This exhibition marks a significant moment, as it features the "Oazuke Tokkuri," an essential tool for tea ceremonies, which plays a vital role in dialogue among guests. The display will also include water basins, flower vases, tea bowls, flat jars, and sake vessels, illustrating the deep insights Abe has into the aesthetics of Momoyama-era Bizen ware.

Among the highlights are pieces that embody both rustic simplicity and unique color combinations. Notably, there will be sake vessels adorned with colorful horse motifs, harmonizing with this year's zodiac theme. This showcase includes 48 artworks, providing a holistic view of Abe's creative journey, including oil paintings that reflect his artistic roots.

Artist Background

Anjin Abe was born in Osaka in 1938 and began his artistic journey at the age of 21, studying under Saburo Miyamoto at the Modern Art Institute. In his 30s, he fully devoted himself to pottery, establishing his kiln in Ushimado, Okayama Prefecture. His first solo exhibition abroad took place in New York in 1996, marking the beginning of his international recognition.

Abe has since expanded his presence globally, hosting exhibitions in France and the United States, and recently exhibited at the Szuoh Art Museum in Taiwan. He also contributes to the field of ceramics by taking part in academic lectures and fostering young talents in pottery, particularly during the establishment of the Shimane Design Vocational School’s pottery department.

Anjin Abe is a member of the International Academy of Ceramics and has received the Oribe Prize from the Oribe Museum. For more on his work, visit his official website.

Notable Collections

Abe’s works are included in several prestigious public collections, both in Japan and abroad. His pieces can be found at the Ehime Prefectural Museum of Art, the National Museum of Modern Art in Kyoto, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the National Palace Museum in Taiwan.

Free Catalog Available

A catalog showcasing the exhibited works is available for free distribution. Interested individuals can apply through the inquiry form on the Kashima Arts website. Please note that supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Exhibition Information

• - Exhibition Title: Anjin Abe Exhibition - Oazuke
• - Website: Kashima Arts Exhibitions
• - Dates: March 20 (Friday, public holiday) - March 29 (Sunday), 2026
• - Operating Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM
• - Number of Works on Display: 48 pieces (works available for purchase)
• - Venue: Kashima Arts 2F Exhibition Room, 3-3-2 Kyobashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
• - Admission: Free

Access:

• - 2-minute walk from Exit 3 of Kyobashi Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
• - 3-minute walk from Exit 7 of Ginza IChome Station (Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line)
• - 5-minute walk from A4 Exit of Tōei Asakusa Line’s宝町 Station
• - 9-minute walk from Yaesu South Exit of Tokyo Station.

Join us at this exceptional exhibition and explore how Anjin Abe’s innovative approach continues to influence the world of ceramics.