Kazuhiro Katase

Kazuhiro Katase｜Beyond Color

In March, I visited Toyota City in Aichi Prefecture for the first time.
Surrounded by peaceful fields, I had the chance to visit the studio of Japanese ceramic artist Kazuhiro Katase.

Stepping into his beautifully designed house, filled with the warmth of natural wood, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant colors carefully arranged throughout the space. But beyond the vivid hues, what truly defines Katase’s work is the rich, flowing texture of his glazes.

Like natural fissures in the earth, the glazes reveal glimpses of raw clay beneath the surface. The combination of soft, sweet colors with rugged, organic textures creates a striking balance - a bold expression of character and a distinctive voice in contemporary ceramics.

Could you briefly introduce yourself?

My name is Kazuhiro Katase [片瀬和宏]. I was born in Shizuoka Prefecture, home to Mount Fuji. I studied ceramics at an art university in Okinawa, and after working as an assistant to Shigekazu Nagae [長江重和], I eventually established my own practice.

What inspired you to become a ceramic artist?

When I was 18, I happened to visit a ceramics exhibition, and that experience became a turning point for me. Although it was an amateur show, speaking with the artist sparked an immediate intuition - I knew then that this was the path I wanted to follow.

Your work spans different series. Could you tell us more about them?

My work is largely divided into two series.
One uses raw clay in its natural state, shaping pieces intuitively through hand-building or wheel-throwing. This approach is deeply influenced by the relaxed spirit of Okinawa, where I studied. I also conducted research on raw clay during my university years.
The other series uses slip casting, where liquefied clay is poured into plaster molds - a technique I learned during my time as an assistant.

Switching between these two contrasting methods helps keep my creative energy fresh and my motivation strong.

Many of your pieces feature irregular forms and creative combinations, expressing a free and distinctive style. What part of the making process do you enjoy the most?

I find joy in moments when I come across things like paintings, fashion, or sneakers and feel a sudden spark of inspiration, thinking, “I could bring this feeling into my work.” Those small discoveries keep the creative process exciting for me.

Is there a particular method of forming or crafting that you especially enjoy?

I would like to continue exploring ways to combine different techniques in my future creations. Bringing together contrasting methods allows me to discover new forms of expression.

Your studio also offers ceramic restoration services. What led you to work in both creation and restoration?

My wife handles the ceramic repairs in our studio. There are many techniques involved in restoration, and by combining materials like metal and glass, we’re able to expand the possibilities of the work. I believe that restoration itself can become an extension of the creative process.

Having been active as a ceramic artist for many years, how do you feel you’ve evolved over time?

I believe that culture is largely shaped by the younger generation. As I grow older, I sometimes feel a sense of urgency about staying connected to that evolving energy. I hope to continue nurturing a sensitivity that allows me to understand the spirit of the times while weaving it together with all the experiences I have gathered so far.