Artists & Brands
It was early spring when we visited Kenji Omori, a ceramic artist based in Okayama Prefecture. His home, newly renovated from an old wooden house, features a large wooden beam cut from a single log running through the space. This blend of rawness and modern design offered our first glimpse into Omori’s unique ability to harmonize materials with contemporary sensibilities.
The most distinctive feature of Omori’s work is the textured surface of his red and black clay. While the clay has a uniform, fine grain that gives it a refined appearance, the final result is both raw and complex, revealing layers of depth in its simplicity.
Omori first encountered pottery during his time as an architecture student, joining a pottery club of the university. Fascinated by the art of ceramics, he travelled across Japan and to explore the distinct pottery techniques and traditions of every region. After graduation from the university, he enrolled in the Tajimi City Pottery Design and Technical Center in Gifu, a public research institute for ceramics and design. During his early years, he would frequently explore the boundaries of his artwork’s size, making pieces that just managed to fit into the kiln.
As he continued to refine his craft at the Tajimi City Pottery Design and Technical Center, his work displayed elements of his architectural background. Today, his works often have a raw, almost concrete-like texture, paired with delicately thrown shapes. This combination creates an aesthetic that seamlessly harmonizes the traditional crafts into contemporary living spaces.
A key element of Omori’s pieces is their evolution over time. With use, the materials take on new patinas and stains, transforming the surface and adding character.
The aesthetic of aging, or “changing scenery,” has long been explored in pottery, particularly in more rustic aesthetics. Omori brings a fresh, contemporary perspective to this tradition, offering a modern take on the beauty of change.
Gato - Ceramics and Japanese Food