Kumiko Claros

Growing up in Japan, my journey with clay started 35 years ago.  Creating functional and Raku pieces my work is a reflection of my deep connection to the nature and landscapes, and those continue to inspire me today.  

Pottery deeply weaves into our daily lives through use and decorates our living spaces with character and elegance, by blending functionality with artistic expression. 

My interests are in form and surface quality expressing sentiments of beauty and vitality through glaze and slip layering.  I also enjoy creating pieces with inlay technique. 

I have been under mentorship of a Tokyo-based master potter Tsuyoshi Hotate. He specializes in inlay techniques commonly known as zōgan (inlay), combining traditional Japanese pottery with innovative designs.

I also have been enjoying transformative experience of Raku and Saggar firing for over 20 years guided by a Raku master Michael Sheba. 
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Raku art is a unique and dynamic form of pottery characterized by a low-firing process and rapid cooling that creates unpredictable and one-of-a-kind surface effects.

My work of both functional and Raku pieces have been exhibited at the National Art Centre Tokyo and Ceramic Art Museum in Saitama, Japan, and have received awards.

Clay work is inspiring, challenging and limitless in possibilities.  I hope that people feel the connection when they see and touch my pieces.