Ceramics for Everyday Ritual and Gathering


Status: Ongoing
Client:
Community Initiated
Type: Arts & Crafts
Size: Ever growing

 

Cutwork Co-founder Kelsea Crawford has studied with renowned Japanese contemporary artist Yoshimi Futamura since 2017. Her ceramics practice is grounded in the wheel and in the social life of objects: bowls, cups, serving dishes, and ceremonial chawans that invite daily ritual and pause. Working primarily in red clay with a restrained white-ash glaze, each series is released in small batchesβ€”quiet, durable pieces made to be used every day, to age well, and to gather people around a table. The result is work that feels quiet and honestβ€”made to age well, to host conversation, and to elevate everyday rituals.

 
 
 
 
 
 

β€œI like my work to remain intuitive. If I overthink a piece, I lose the joy of beginning and seeing what emerges. It’s a counterpoint to the discipline of running a studioβ€”and I value being able to hold both modes at once.”

 

"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"

 
 
 
 
 

"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"


During their free time, they find solace and creative fulfillment in the practice of Japanese ceramics. Working with clay and immersing themselves in the art of pottery has become a cherished part of their life. The Japanese ceramic tradition, with its deep-rooted history and intricate techniques, has captivated their interest and allowed them to delve into a world of aesthetic beauty and mindfulness.

 
 
 
 
 

The Wheel


Her practice is primarily wheel-thrown: centering, pulling, trimmingβ€”repetition as method. Small shifts in lip, foot, and wall change how a vessel sits in the hand and on the table.

 

YΕ«gen - εΉ½ηŽ„


Finding YΕ«gen, Exploring Japanese Ceramic Art in Free Time" encapsulates a deeply spiritual and artistic journey. In the realm of Japanese ceramics, this pursuit transcends the tangible and ventures into the realm of the mysterious and profound. Like the elusive concept of YΕ«gen itself, the experience of working with clay becomes a meditation, a quest to connect with the hidden, subtle beauty of creation. Each moment spent molding clay is a step towards embracing the imperfections and enigmatic charm of this ancient tradition. It is a means of touching the intangible, appreciating the subtle aesthetics of wabi-sabi, and delving into a world where

 
 
 
 
 
 
 


"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"


During their free time, they find solace and creative fulfillment in the practice of Japanese ceramics. Working with clay and immersing themselves in the art of pottery has become a cherished part of their life. The Japanese ceramic tradition, with its deep-rooted history and intricate techniques, has captivated their interest and allowed them to delve into a world of aesthetic beauty and mindfulness.

 
 
 
 
 
 

"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"


During their free time, they find solace and creative fulfillment in the practice of Japanese ceramics. Working with clay and immersing themselves in the art of pottery has become a cherished part of their life. The Japanese ceramic tradition, with its deep-rooted history and intricate techniques, has captivated their interest and allowed them to delve into a world of aesthetic beauty and mindfulness.

 

"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"


During their free time, they find solace and creative fulfillment in the practice of Japanese ceramics. Working with clay and immersing themselves in the art of pottery has become a cherished part of their life. The Japanese ceramic tradition, with its deep-rooted history and intricate techniques, has captivated their interest and allowed them to delve into a world of aesthetic beauty and mindfulness.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"


During their free time, they find solace and creative fulfillment in the practice of Japanese ceramics. Working with clay and immersing themselves in the art of pottery has become a cherished part of their life. The Japanese ceramic tradition, with its deep-rooted history and intricate techniques, has captivated their interest and allowed them to delve into a world of aesthetic beauty and mindfulness.

 
 
 
 
 

"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"


During their free time, they find solace and creative fulfillment in the practice of Japanese ceramics. Working with clay and immersing themselves in the art of pottery has become a cherished part of their life. The Japanese ceramic tradition, with its deep-rooted history and intricate techniques, has captivated their interest and allowed them to delve into a world of aesthetic beauty and mindfulness.

 
 

"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"


During their free time, they find solace and creative fulfillment in the practice of Japanese ceramics. Working with clay and immersing themselves in the art of pottery has become a cherished part of their life. The Japanese ceramic tradition, with its deep-rooted history and intricate techniques, has captivated their interest and allowed them to delve into a world of aesthetic beauty and mindfulness.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

"Nurturing Tranquility: Their Japanese Ceramic Journey in Free Time"


Yoshimi, the teacher and master of ceramics techniques, plays a pivotal role in passing down the art and craft of ceramics to aspiring students. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, she serves as a bridge between tradition and innovation, guiding her students through the intricate world of clay and pottery. Yoshimi's role extends beyond that of an instructor; she embodies the spirit of a mentor, sharing not only the technical aspects but also the profound philosophy and cultural significance that ceramics hold, particularly in Japanese tradition.

 
 
 

Let’s Work Together

Have a project in mind? Need help bringing it to the world? We’d love to hear from you.