DECADES (IN THE MAKING)

While I freely admit there are those times when simplicity is overshadowed by a really complex form or surface, the majority of what appeals to me is a simple pot, a simple bowl with a simple form, simple lines and simple surface. As I look at this kairagi-yu chawan by Kimura Morinobu that is exactly what I see in this bowl, classic purposeful form and intriguing and textural surface with a bold decoration that at first glance appears to clash or contradict the simplicity but after studying the piece it actually is in harmony creating a unified aesthetic. I am drawn to the form and spontaneous cutting of the foot born of practicality and more to the point, the way in which Kimura has used the clay and glaze in such a straight forward and honest manner. The bold, form-conscious iron decoration comes into play and brings life and movement to the pot.   

This chawan has a story, the story of decades of bowls and other pots made in series both large and small. This story creates a distinct vocabulary that has a commonality while at the same time creating unique works in clay, each with their own nuances and individual tendencies that set each and ever one apart. This chawan is precisely why I like simple and admire the manner in which Kimura Morinobu makes pots, everything he makes is the same but very different at the same time.