Yoshikawa Mizuki

by **NaomiM** September 21st 2024, 10:42 pm

Akae guinomi by Yoshikawa Mizuki (1941-2017), Mashiko, Japan

"akae or aka-e = Japanese enamel decoration where iron red dominates". See Tomoo Hamada's pottery for more examples

Originally from Toyoshima, Tokyo, Yoshikawa Mizuki graduated from the Faculty of Crafts at Tokyo University of the Arts and the Graduate School of Ceramics. During the studies, he had the privilege of being mentored by renowned ceramic artists such as Kato Hajime, Fujimoto Yoshimichi, Tamura Koichi, and Asano Akira.
Afterward, he worked as an Engineer at the Tochigi Prefectural Ceramic Instruction Institute, where he gained valuable experience and further honed his skills. In 1969, he established his own kiln in Mashiko and embarked on an independent career.
Over the years, Yoshikawa Mizuki's work has received recognition and accolades. Notably, he received the Honorable Mention Award at the Exhibition of New Works of Traditional Crafts, along with other prestigious awards. His pieces have also been selected for prominent exhibitions, including the Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition and Japan Ceramic Exhibition. Additionally, he is an official member of the Japan Craft Society.
Also, Yoshikawa Mizuki held private exhibitions at esteemed venues such as Kioicho Kandori, Minamiaoyama Green Gallery, and the Mitsukoshi in Nihombashi. Throughout his career, his artistic focus has primarily been on creating red paintings on kesho engobe and utilizing iron pigment painting on black glazing.

The painting style is similar of his teacher, Living National Treasure, Fujimoto Yoshimichi.