Zenzo Fukushima

Zenzo Fukushima was born into a long line of Koishiwara ware ceramicists, and is currently the 16th generation from his family to practice and create this ware. After graduating from Fukuoka University, he decided to follow in the footsteps of the family tradition. His long search for a master ceramicist led him to the conclusion that he must learn from his father and grandfather. He intended to learn the rich traditions and techniques associated with this ware but also wanted to use and develop traditional materials in a pioneering manner. Many years later, based on his mastery of traditional techniques and raw materials, Zenzo Fukushima has developed and created numerous glazes. Some of these have taken up to ten years to perfect such as his unique mastery of celadon ware.

Koishiwara ware, with origins in 16th century Korea, was first introduced to Japan in the 17th century. Celadon glaze is a form of ceramic glaze known for its distinctive jade or celadon hues. When this glaze is applied to earthenware and fired, characteristic cracks are known to typically form on the surface due to the contraction of the glaze over the brittle earthenware. Zenzo Fukushima did not accept that this had to be the norm and experimented for nearly a decade to perfect his celadon glaze ware. Through careful control of the glaze’s composition as well as the firing process, Fukushima now creates crack-free ware.

The local clay traditionally used to make Koishiwara ware is high in iron and therefore changes to a dark brown hue when fired. This colour presented a challenge to ceramicists and the answer was to coat the ware with white slip, impressing patters into it. Koishiwara ware was traditionally associated with simple uses but started to gain more attention towards the middle of the 20th century. Unlike other National Living Treasures that have benefited from several generations of designated artisans, Fukushima has been the first artisan designated a preserverof Koishiwara ware. A few days before the official ceremony, the region suffered heavy rains triggering landslides that destroyed numerous kilns. The kilns have now been rebuilt, however such events highlight the importance of preserving these techniques.

The Ateliers of Wonders Exhibition

12 Stone Garden Exhibition