A Bright Collection of Ceramics Shining with Light at Wako Ginza

From July 31 to August 11, 2023, Wako Ginza will host a captivating exhibition titled “A Three-Person Exhibition of Seiji Takamori, Shinobu Tanaka, and Toshihiko Tsuji - Infusing Light into Stone.” This event will take place at the Seiko House Hall, showcasing the artistic endeavors of three prominent ceramic artists from Arita, Saga Prefecture, a region renowned for its profound history in pottery and porcelain dating back over 400 years.

The featured artists, Seiji Takamori, Shinobu Tanaka, and Toshihiko Tsuji, have each carved unique paths in their artistic journeys, allowing them to express diverse perspectives on the theme of light.

Featured Artists:

Seiji Takamori

Born in Fukuoka in 1962, Seiji Takamori has an extensive background in ceramics. After graduating from the Saga Arita Technical High School’s ceramics course in 1981, he honed his skills at various kilns including Arita and Karatsu, as well as in Kyoto. His work features a wide range of techniques, from traditional white porcelain to classical colored porcelain, making Takamori’s pieces exhibits of versatile expressions. His impressive resume includes accolades like the West Japan Ceramic Art Award in 1999 and participation in notable exhibitions such as the Milano Expo in 2015.

Shinobu Tanaka

Also born in 1962 in the Ureshino region of Saga, Shinobu Tanaka holds a degree in economics from Chuo University. Returning home in 1987, he trained under his father, Tanaka Kazuaki. His craftsmanship shines through in works that feature “Yuri-kō,” a glazing technique originating from the Yuan dynasty in China known for its soft and profound coloration. Tanaka’s pieces often depict delicate flora and fauna, exhibiting a deep emotional connection to nature.

Toshihiko Tsuji

Toshihiko Tsuji, born in 1965 in Arita, began his artistic path after training under Yoshimori Sugimoto, a painter, and later focused on ceramics. He integrates linear engraving techniques with gradients, expressing the beautiful landscapes encountered on his travels. His works transcend mere representation, evoking a poetic resonance that allows viewers to connect with nature and emotion physically.

Exhibition Overview

The exhibition’s central theme, “Infusing Light into Stone,” encourages viewers to explore the myriad representations of light in the artists’ works. Whether through the natural light captured on ceramics or the internal radiance sculpted by the artists’ imaginations, visitors can witness a harmonious gathering of these distinctive expressions in one space.

Gallery Talk

Join us for a unique opportunity to engage with the artists during a gallery talk scheduled for August 2 at 2 PM. Please note that entry may be limited during peak times to ensure a comfortable experience for all attendees.

Limited Edition Purchase

In celebration of this exhibition, a limited edition set of three sake cups (in a wooden box) is available for purchase, with a price tag of ¥88,000, aimed at providing attendees a chance to own a piece of this artistic collaboration.

Visitor Information

- Dates: July 31 – August 11, 2023
- Location: Seiko House Hall, 4-5-11 Ginza, Chuo City, Tokyo, Japan
- Contact Number: 03-3562-2111 (Main)
- Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closing at 5:00 PM on the final day)
- Admission: Free

Wako has recently rebranded its gallery to “Seiko House Hall,” focusing on a broader range of exhibitions related to Seiko Group’s activities and collaborations with artists, reaching audiences worldwide.

For more information, visit Wako's official website or follow them on Instagram here.