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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