Shigekazu Nagae (1953- )

 

Shigekazu Nagae is a leading pioneer of porcelain slipcasting techniques in Japan. Casting is

commonly associated with mass-produced porcelain, yet Nagae transcends this stereotype to

create abstract works that are emancipated from the creative restrictions imposed by

functionality. His latest works are the culmination of his extensive experiments into the

qualities of clay and fire. Liquid porcelain is first slip-cast into two different moulds. After drying

and bisque-firing, the separate pieces are hung mid-air within Nagae’s kiln and attached

together with glaze. The natural curvatures and silhouettes are a result of the natural kiln

effects that serendipitously drape and taper the porcelain into organic sheets.

 

Born in Seto, Aichi, Nagae studied ceramics in Seto before teaching in both Seto and Bunsei.

In 2002 he became a member of the International Ceramics Academy, and in 2004 received

the Cultural Prize, Art Selection of Aichi Prefecture, Aichi. Other awards include Grand Prix,

Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition, Grand Prix, Triennal de la Porcelain, Nyon and Grand Prix, Mino

Ceramic Festival, Japan

 

Public Collections

The Museum of Contemporary Ceramic Art, Shiga, Japan

Japan Foundation, Japan

Sevre National Museum of Ceramics, Paris, France

Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu

Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan

Musee Ariana, Geneva, Switzerland

Victoria & Albert Museum, London, UK

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