Jun Isezaki

Jun Isezaki is an internationally recognised ceramicist who specialises in Bizen ware, a form of ceramic ware with roots in the Bizen province of Okayama in the 12th century. His works, ranging from traditional to modern designs, are created using techniques traditionally associated with this earthenware and are characteristically fired without glazes. A significant characteristic of this ware is its glaze obtained as a result of imbuing the pieces with ash during the firing process, known as yakishime style glaze. He creates these glazes through the firing process in an Anagama kiln. This hillside kiln is instrumental to Bizen ware and the Isezaki family have been credited with its revival in the town of Bizen. In 2004, Isezaki was designated a National Living Treasure by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs. He is the fifth artisan specialising in Bizen ware to be honoured with this designation.

The surface of the ware is decorated through its firing process in an Anagama kiln, a traditional wood kiln dug into a hillside. The ware is covered in ashes before and during the firing process, ultimately giving each piece its characteristic design and surface texture. This process means that the outcome of each piece will always be unique or original. Every step can influence the outcome, meaning that details such as where the unfired piece is paced in the kiln are of paramount importance.

Jun Isezaki’s father, Yozan Isezaki discovered the remains of an Edo period kiln back in the 60s. Jun Isezaki and his brother built a similar Anagama kiln based on this one. It is said that this kiln was the first of its kind to be fired in Bizen in 600 years. Isezaki has inherited the tradition of Bizen ware, continuously handed down over 800 years. He believes that "Tradition is a spirit of adventure, a new challenge, and tradition is not truly understood, but is transmitted through creativity rather than understanding."

The Ateliers of Wonders Exhibition

12 Stone Garden Exhibition