About Son
Centennial Workshop
Son's workshop, which has been in operation for over 100 years, was established in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture, renowned for its Mino ware.
Tajimi, often referred to as the "town of pottery," is home to many kilns and carries a rich history of tradition and innovation.
At Son, we continue to use and maintain a 100-year-old hand-turned pottery wheel inherited from previous generations.
A vessel that reveres and respects nature
A vessel that respects nature, "尊 Son." The existence of this vessel does not showcase itself but embraces the natural elements of mountains, the moon, the sea, the wind, and rivers, embodying the truth of accepting and guiding nature's way. The landscapes created by nature are breathtakingly beautiful, from the harsh winters to the mountains adorned with autumn colors in Japan. The laws of nature are free from any intent or design. The approximately 46-day pottery-making process involves various serendipitous encounters, culminating in a unique creation. The artist, Kato Takaya, says, "Pottery is an act of self-inquiry." "I am merely a part of nature. We exist within the providence of nature, grateful for its blessings. We listen to its voice, transmit it through our hands, and imbue it into our vessels." Some describe Son's vessels as akin to Zen or a mirror reflecting oneself. The answer lies within each individual's heart, "尊 Son."
Son's craftsmanship does not seek answers.
It surrenders to nature, embodies impermanence, and reveres it.
Flowing like clouds and water (kouunryuusui)
Embracing Japan’s beautiful four seasons and the subtle changes of nature, I absorb these impressions, sketch them, and transform them into form.
Each sketch is a one-time creation.
I carefully refine certain shapes and color tones over about seven days, but once complete, I make no corrections.
With a brush, I design the overall image.
For some works, I recreate and use a “hand-turned potter’s wheel” that was actually used 100 years ago.
Unlike an electric wheel, its rotation speed is not constant, allowing me to express the gentle flow of time that comes from the natural stretching of the clay.
Enjoying the blessings of nature brought by the changing seasons is something that has remained unchanged from the past to the present.
Mountains, the moon, the sea, the wind, rivers, and the changing seasons.
When using my pieces, I hope people can feel these elements and enrich their hearts, and I always keep this in mind when creating.
take over the traditional method
Message
Crafts are often referred to as "the beauty of utility."
While crafted for daily use, the refined vessels from Son are also considered art.
At Son, our Craft Art is based on the concept of "useful art," where the true value is revealed through use.
Son's vessels evoke different feelings for different people.
When you need to calm your mind or feel uneasy, please take a moment to enjoy a sip with a Son vessel.
We create each piece with the hope of enriching your heart, even just a little.