Japanese ceramist, Michikawa Shōzō is sitting in front of a potter's wheel in an art studio. The art studio has many supplies and tools surrounding the room.

Artist Demonstration: Michikawa Shōzō

Michikawa Shōzō was born on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido and studied economics in Tokyo. After three years, he abandoned business work to become a professional potter in south Seto, Aichi Prefecture. His unconventional style of twisting clay has made him famous internationally, and he has taught workshops all over the world, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, Canada, Chile, China, the Philippines, and Mongolia.

In this presentation, Michikawa will demonstrate how he creates his signature works—some of which are currently on view in the special exhibition The Root Collection: Living with Japanese Ceramics.

In support of this program, Northern Clay Center has generously loaned a pottery wheel to Mia. Northern Clay Center, a non profit organization located in the Seward neighborhood of Minneapolis, advances the ceramic arts for artists, learners, and the community, through education, exhibitions, and artist services. For more information about the Center, their mission, and program offerings, please visit their website.