Trip to Koishiwara

The Ontayaki from this area is known for “TOBIKANNNA” (chattering) decoration. The artisans use an old wall clock’s spring to create a chattering effect on slipped greenware.  We took a half-day workshop on throwing with locally sourced clay and making pieces in rustic Mingei style.  It was fun, at the same time, difficult to switch from working for perfection to loosening up.

Then we visited another family potter’s studio/showroom specializing in wood firing. He had two large climbing kilns. We get to go inside the climbing kiln to see how the kiln wall is glazed naturally from the flying ashes while firing.

In this field trip, we were in two separate cars. Kenichiro and Mirjam’s friend drove us, and on the way back, she took us to a special noodle place for dinner, then to a very famous library in Takeo City. It was such a treat to do something outside of the studio.