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I recently visited the studio of ceramic artist Satoru Omae on Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture.
Satoru Omae is a highly sought-after Japanese ceramic artist whose works have attracted considerable attention from collectors both in Japan and overseas.
His solo exhibitions often draw long lines of visitors waiting to enter, reflecting the strong interest in his work.
What I find particularly fascinating about Omae san’s ceramics is his deep commitment to every aspect of the creative process — the clay, the firing, and the form.
He places great importance on using locally sourced materials from Awaji Island, exploring the characteristics of the clay and bringing out their potential through his firing techniques and distinctive forms.
With a profound appreciation for historical Japanese and Korean ceramics, he draws inspiration from traditional pottery while developing his own original artistic expressions.
His passion for materials, firing, and form is evident in his work. What makes him such a remarkable ceramic artist is not only the depth of his ideas but also his ability to bring them to life through his craftsmanship.
During this visit, I had the opportunity to spend some time at his studio and select several works, including chawan (tea bowls) and sake vessels, for Hagiyakiya.
I also stopped by Hitukinagaku, a gallery café located just beside Izanagi Jingu Shrine on Awaji Island.
The gallery currently features a large selection of works by Satoru Omae.
At the café, we enjoyed delicious coffee and pudding served in ceramics created by Omae san.
Being able to enjoy coffee and dessert while actually using an artist’s handmade ceramics is a wonderful way to experience the beauty and character of his work.
We have acquired several new pieces by Satoru Omae, including chawan and sake vessels, which will be available on the Hagiyakiya website soon.
We look forward to sharing them with you!
Hitukinagaku – Gallery & Café
485-5 Taga, Awaji City, Hyogo, Japan
Near Izanagi Jingu Shrine
https://hitukinagaku.jimdofree.com/
