Itoh has mastered an amazing range of ceramic and glaze styles and is at present concentrating on Nerikomi, a technique in which coloured clays are blended and melded. His approach to Nerikomi produces sophisticated effects on superbly crafted vessels. In the final stage of firing salt is introduced into the kiln and this combines with silica on the surface of the pots for a soft, glossy sheen. One is tempted to think that the colours are painted on, but they are in fact the colours of the pigment-dyed clays.
Brief biography
1945 Born into a pottery family in Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kiln sites
1963~ Studied under master craftsman Goro Tomimoto
1978 Won a Silver medal at the Vallauris International Ceramic Competition
Since then has exhibited yearly in official and private gallery exhibitions throughout Japan and has taken part in numerous workshops in Thailand, South Korea, U.S. and India.
His most recent overseas exhibition was with Vineet Kacker at Anant Gallery, New Delhi, 2006.
