Friday, October 21, 2022

HAI-SHINO

Illustrated is a Hai-Shino guinomi that was hand formed and carved by Kowari Tetsuya. What should be immediately apparent and is exactly why I am a fan of Kowari's work is the spontaneous and directness that define much of his work. Pieces are thrown, manipulated, torn, ripped, fluted, carved, reattached in interesting and idiosyncratic ways that make it clear exactly who made the pot you are looking at. This particular guinomi was hand carved out of thick clay to create a generous interior, a highly active lip and an exterior that looks as if it were naturally formed where erosion has created channels down the form that fit the pot perfectly in one's grasp. With iron, ash and feldspar at his disposal, this Hai-Shino guinomi has a rather active and adventurous exterior where the material creates a surface reminiscent of geology at its best. Perhaps the best feature of this guinomi is the posture alluding to motion, a confident and determined swagger where the high points of each flute fills the hand and eye with texture where aesthetics and function collide making for a guinomi that exceeds its base purpose.     

Though perhaps a quote often used and a bit cliché, I thought it quite appropriate; "Definiteness of purpose is the starting point of all achievement."  W. Clement Stone