Vessel, 1989

Masuo Ojima

stoneware, glaze

19.75" H x 15" Diameter

This orange and gray striped vase by Masuo Ojima is bold, adorned with beautifully dynamic patterns moving across its surface. The stripes are cinched and never straight, creating a sense of constant motion. Upon closer examination, the colors themselves are just as dynamic as the patterns. Dark and light orange hues move across the surface, contributing to a sense of depth and action. The gray surface color is spotted, reminiscent of organic materials like stone, rocks, pebbles, or pavement.

Artist Statement

I was born and grew up in Japan. The first two decades of my life there established my culture and aesthetic value. I have many memories of wood and clay around me while I was growing up because my father was a cabinet maker and my grandfather was a traditional Japanese roof tile producer.

Ever since I was a child my interests were always inclined to music and the art field. It was so many years later that I encountered ceramic work. In college, I serendipitously came across the ceramic department on campus and was quite intrigued by watching students working in clay. I immediately signed up for class the following quarter and during the first class meeting I was immensely overwhelmed by the feeling and excitement of creating some objects out of my own hands with just an idea and playful mind. It did not take much time to change my mind to go into the art field not knowing what the future would hold.

Several years after finishing my studies at college, I established my own studio and started creating my work. It has been nearly 4 decades since this journey started. Although there have always been struggles, frustration, experiencing terrible results that occur during the firing process, and many more not to mention. Joy and excitement and seeing something new being created can not be replaced by anything. I will be pursuing my work as long as I am excited by the creative process and AS LONG AS my body allows.

Donated by the Grainer Family.

• All winning bids are paid in full before artwork leaves The Clay Studio. Winning Bids are automatically billed at the close of the Auction at 10:30 pm.
• Shipping is NOT included in the winning bid.
• Items can be packed and shipped, and the winner will pay the cost.
• Items can be picked up at The Clay Studio for no additional cost.
• Items with alcohol CANNOT be shipped.