Bizen Ware Artist KYO ISEZAKI Kyō Isezaki

Kyō Isezaki, born in Bizen, Okayama in 1970, is the fourth son of Bizen-yaki ceramic artist Mitsuru Isezaki. In 1999, he embarked on his journey as an independent Bizen-yaki artist. His father holds the distinguished title of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture for his contributions to the field of Bizen-yaki, while his uncle, Jun Isezaki, is recognized as a Living National Treasure of Bizen-yaki pottery.

Bizen-yaki is a renowned style of pottery fired in the region of Ibe, Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture, with a remarkable history spanning almost a millennium. What makes Bizen-yaki truly captivating is its characteristic absence of glaze and brushwork for pattern creation. Instead, the pieces are carefully fired in kilns, subject to a gradual temperature increase up to 1,200 degrees Celsius, resulting in a distinct and profound expression. By allowing the flames to interact with the pottery, unexpected transformations occur within the kiln, giving rise to a myriad of artistic expressions. Harnessing the essence of this unpredictability, Kyō Isezaki undertakes the challenging artistic process of creating works that embody the traditional techniques. Renowned for his remarkable talent, his works have garnered admiration from prominent individuals and cemented his status as a respected artist in the realm of Bizen-yaki, captivating the hearts of countless pottery enthusiasts.