Kikyo Gama

Elegance to Yakishime Pottery 

Emu Nakai, a female ceramic artist, has been fascinated by pottery since she was a high school student. After graduating from Kyoto College of Traditional Crafts, she apprenticed under a Tanba-yaki potter for five years before becoming independent.

In an era where many use small gas kilns, Emu chose to start Kikyo Gama, which is a self-made kiln that fires at high temperatures in the old-fashioned way, cutting wood deep in the mountains with her family. She researched kiln construction in libraries since her student days, embodying the ethos of doing everything herself and harboring a strong desire for producing pieces she can be satisfied with.

Emu's works blend seamlessly into anyone's everyday life while reflecting her individuality. Creating glossy and delicate pieces, somewhat unusual for Yakishime pottery, showcases her strong personality and aesthetic sense, leaving a profound impression.

The characteristic lies in its thinness and luster. In contrast to the robust impression often associated with thicker and rougher Yakishime pottery, the deliberate thinness and the beauty of natural glazes produced by firing in traditional high-temperature kilns, with their gloss enhanced through thorough polishing, bring out a particular gracefulness and delicacy not found in other Yakishime pottery.

Her passion is to provide everyday utensils that are affordable and user-friendly. The thoughtful pricing, designing rice bowls to prevent rice grains from sticking, ensuring cups have a comfortable mouthfeel and are easy to hold—all reflect meticulous considerations.

She constantly challenges herself, such as using clay from various regions and experimenting with colours derived from natural sources or pigments mixed into the soil. Currently, she passionately seeks clay from her beloved hometown, Kameoka! She also have a dream of starting a restaurant using her own pottery in the future.

Continuously crafting utensils that resonate with those seeking a life in harmony with nature, Emu Nakai is committed to fostering a culture of mindful living.