"NOT FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF RENEWABLE CERAMICS" - SHAKUNAGA GAKU PERFORMED AT MOME

In addition to its long tradition, Japanese ceramics still play an essential role in East Asian culture. As if the influence of the artifact culture coming from Japan had not changed since the cult conquering Europe in the 19th century. I am thinking here that these objects have a peculiar mystical aura that still captivates the viewer. The contemporary ceramist, Shakunaga Gaku During the study of his works, this kind of emanation was also noticeable, who, in addition to presenting his subjects, also held a workshop and lecture at the MOME.

Shakunaga Gaku initially studied sculpture in Tokyo. He was already fascinated by the rich materials and techniques of traditional Japanese ceramics, so in their family as a third generation ceramist he learned the profession at his father's. Afterwards, he opened an independent workshop because he was disturbed by the difficulty of breaking away from his father's style, and his pre-studies undoubtedly contributed greatly to his later specific approach and way of expression.

Shakunaga told me that at first he was more interested in artworks. He wanted to create irregular objects with no trace of human hands.. Later it became clear to him that it was difficult to make objects alone. Japan has a huge market for utilitarian ceramics, using supplies created by almost all restaurants and private ceramic artists.

From then on, Shakunaga sought to create completely unique objects of art, in which object-likeness could be discovered, and which at first glance, they do not look like ceramics because of their special textures. Although there are separate companies for this, the glaze is made by itself, because the truly unique objects require independent experimentation, and because of this, his works have become extremely popular. Today, there are more than 200 restaurants worldwide, of which more than 50 Michelin stars use his work.

Shakunaga strives for natural forms and colors, which are created by finely harmonizing traditional and contemporary elements. Its textures are reminiscent of fine cork, leather and metal. In Japan, the process of making ceramics ends as soon as the product is removed from the furnace, but he still treats — somewhat irregularly — his objects, giving them specific surfaces. The peculiarity of his dishes is that always shapes to taste, and shapes the surface and material of its objects in such a way as to produce the most natural sensation possible when in contact with the mouth.. In this way, the objects contribute to the creation of a perfect taste. Based on the works of Gaku Shakunaga, it can be sensed that Japanese ceramics still have a gentle attitude towards nature, so it is worth keeping an eye on the actual pieces of contemporary ceramics.

// /

The presentation and the workshop were organized by the Design Institute of MOME.

Author: Vivien Kadi

The gallery was not found!