TETSUZO KEI OOTA
Born as the third son of Mr.Kumao OTA, a master of Koishiwara ware, Tetsuzo trained under his father for seven years after graduating from the ceramics department. After that, in keeping with the folk pottery tradition of the eldest son taking over the kiln, he built his own kiln and pottery at its current location as a branch of the family and became independent in 1975. During his rigorous training as a potter, he learned repetitive work from his master and father, Kumao. Make something that is faithful to its purpose and easy to use. Refining the skilled techniques handed down through the generations, and then doing honest work that will please the user. He was thoroughly taught these things.
Repetitive work can be seen in each and every piece of pottery that Tetsuzo makes. Even compared to his tall and slender figure, the pottery that comes from Tetsuzo's hands feels even larger than his tall and slender figure, and while each piece has a strength that comes from his skilled techniques, it also feels strangely soft when held in the hand. Also, every part of the hand that touches the pottery feels comfortable. Every time we handle them, we are reminded that in addition to their beauty that captivates both the eye and the heart, they are vessels made to please the user both visually and practically.
A plate at the kiln where Tetsuzo Ota and his eldest son Kei work was being used as an ashtray. It had a crack when it was taken out of the kiln, and it seems that they used the plate as an ashtray because there just happened to be no ashtray nearby. A half-smoked cigarette was inserted into a tobacco holder that looked like an incense holder, with a perfectly fitting hole in it, and we felt that this scene truly symbolized the fact that they were not making art but everyday utensils.
When you visit the atelier, you can't feel any father-son relationship at all, there is a tense atmosphere, and the relationship between the two is that of master and apprentice.Tetsuzo must be a very strict master, as you can tell by watching his son Kei who doesn't say much, greets him with a smile and is very calm, concentrating on the repetitive work, but we think Tetsuzo's father and master Kumao, was probably just as strict. From the master's work, you can sense his attitude and way of thinking towards technology and craftsmanship, as well as his strong desire to pass on the healthy traditions of Koishiwara ware to Ota Tetsuzo and Kei Pottery.
Around Ota Tetsuzo Kei Pottery,what they made is literally lying around.
Anything that wasn't in good condition when it was taken out of the kiln is tossed on the ground as if to return to the earth, and next to it is a beautiful large plate on display; this scene can also be seen at the neighboring Onta ware, and it is a very pleasant sight. In addition to the impression of returning to nature things made with the bounty of nature, it is proof that the makers of these pottery are not at all arrogant. It may be natural that the pottery made in this way ends up on customers' tables as daily tableware, but we would like to ensure that this trend continues in the future.
Several of Tetsuzo's wonderful cars were parked at the kiln. What people who make pottery that is fun to look at and enriches the soul have in common is an endless overflowing curiosity and sense. Of course, based on repetitive work, they faithfully preserve the traditional pottery of Koishiwara ware, but even with those restrictions, they have innate sense and an overflowing curiosity from within. This is not easy to imitate. Also, when we see his son Kei, who is sincere but has an indescribable charm and goes at his own pace, we are very excited to see Kei's own work that will come out after many years of repeated work.
A wide range of pottery is produced every day from this kiln, and in addition to the classic Koishiwara ware, we would like to introduce many of the pottery from this kiln that is full of such fun that just having it on hand will make your daily life a little more enjoyable.
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