Hitoshi Morimoto, Maker of Bizen Vessels

There is a sense of stillness and calm where Hitoshi Morimoto resides and works - atop a hill in Bizen, Okayama Prefecture.

He began his career under Seiya Toyoba, a Mino pottery master. Through this Zen monk-like training, the second-generation artisan developed the perspective and disposition necessary to make a great potter. 

In navigating the unpredictable nature of working with ash and fire, he has molded his unique style of Bizen pottery - one that has a time-honored yet timeless silhouette - inspired by ancient Japan and daily life. While using the same clay soil in all his pieces, the various textures and colors appear based on where they sit in the kiln.