Vase 2000

This vase was created by Shimaoka Tatsuzō, and its mottled surface looks like it was made with a comb, dragged through a layer of glaze to reveal the clay beneath. I imagine the artist feeling the weight of the piece in their hands, turning it slowly on the wheel, and applying the glaze with steady, practiced movements. The color palette of ochre, green and brown is earthy and subdued, bringing to mind landscapes and natural forms. The repetitive, rhythmic pattern incised into its surface is interesting. I imagine Shimaoka experimenting with various tools and techniques to achieve this textured effect. It’s like he’s trying to balance control and spontaneity. The vase reminds me of some of Lucie Rie's functional pottery, but with a more rustic, handmade feel. Artists are always riffing off each other, even across continents, inspiring and pushing each other to new places. This vase embodies the essence of artistic inquiry through material exploration.