"Akita Sumire Exhibition" to be held at Uehara store from 10/4 (Sat) - 10/8 (Wed)!

From October 4th (Sat) to October 8th (Wed), FOOD FOR THOUGHT Uehara will host a solo exhibition by ceramist Sumire Akita. Ms. Akita will be present on the first day, October 4th (Sat). This is a unique opportunity to get tips on choosing pieces. Fans, please don't miss it!

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Sumire Akita, based in Karatsu, honors traditional techniques while reflecting contemporary times in her ceramic works. We are delighted to host her anticipated second solo exhibition at FOOD FOR THOUGHT Uehara!

Ms. Akita refined her skills, majoring in ceramics at university. She encountered Karatsu ware, trained for three years, and then became independent. Currently, she uses a self-built wood-fired kiln and even gathers her own raw materials, dedicating herself to pottery daily.

Her works' charm lies in how beautifully they integrate with and enhance "flowers," "food," and "sake"—the elements they interact with—and how they, in turn, become more beautiful and profound through these interactions. Her pieces possess a modern and delicate presence, yet embody the soft texture of ancient pottery. Within their quiet impression, one can feel a fresh vitality, like new leaves.

The finger marks from glazing and the way the glaze melts into the clay create a beautiful landscape. The rich, fresh texture of the glaze pooled in the base and around the foot is also a highlight. Furthermore, since the firing location in the wood-fired kiln changes the color development, even pieces made from the same clay and glaze each possess their own profound charm. The unique expression of each piece reflects the undulations of the fire and the events within the kiln, making it delightful to ponder the time they've undergone.

This exhibition will feature a wide array of appealing works that fully showcase Ms. Akita's artistry, including her classic white porcelain and E-Karatsu, as well as Ao-Karatsu, Kuro-Karatsu, and Yakishime. Also on display will be her recent explorations in line carving and fukizumi (blown ink) techniques. In addition to her standard items, there will be an abundant selection of 7 to 8-inch plates. Please look forward to it.

Having favorite tableware makes dining much more luxurious, doesn't it? Her delicate and elegant pieces beautifully complement modern cuisine. This lineup is also a must-see for restaurant owners.
As the intense heat subsides and autumn's presence gradually emerges, embrace this season of harvest with Ms. Akita's works and enjoy them with delicious food.

Ms. Akita will be joining us all the way from Karatsu on the first day, October 4th (Sat)! This is an invaluable opportunity to get tips on selecting pieces. Fans, please don't miss it.
We sincerely look forward to your visit. (Haruna)

Sumire Akita's Ceramics History
1995 Born in Kanagawa Prefecture
2018 Graduated from Musashino Art University, Ceramics Department
2018 Studied under Masahiro Takehana
2022-23 Became independent / Built kiln

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"Sumire Akita Exhibition"
FOOD FOR THOUGHT Uehara
October 4th (Sat) - October 8th (Wed)
11:00-18:00
*Ms. Akita will be present on the first day, October 4th (Sat)!
*No reservation required all day
*Due to the small size of the store, entry restrictions or time limits may be implemented. We appreciate your understanding.

⚠️Payments under 11,000 yen (tax included) are cash only.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Uehara
2-33-4 Uehara, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
151-0064
03-6416-8294