Is clay a “vessel” or a “medium of expression”? Four artists showcase a new approach to ceramics.

When people hear the term “pottery,” many probably think of vessels crafted by artisans on a potter’s wheel or traditional crafts.

However, a group exhibition is being held that effortlessly transcends that traditional image and views clay as a medium of expression on par with painting and sculpture.

The venue is “GALLERY TARGET,” located in Harajuku and Jingumae. The gallery, which has organized numerous exhibitions incorporating elements of street culture, will launch “FORM / ATTITUDE” from Friday, September 11, through Saturday, October 3.

The highlight of this event is, without a doubt, the uniquely creative approaches of the four participating ceramic artists.

Jasmin Noda, originally from Thailand, creates works that explore the space between craft and contemporary art by incorporating motifs such as “cracks” in pottery and plants. Drawing on traditional ceramic techniques as her foundation, she reexamines the very meaning of pottery itself.

Morihiro Okada creates endearing, three-dimensional works reminiscent of teddy bears. By imbuing ceramic—a material that is inherently inorganic and hard—with the nuance of a "cherished pet" that makes you want to touch or hug it, he produces works that exude a presence that is both endearing and substantial.

Takumi Miyashita blends contemporary pop culture elements such as video games and manga into his work. By transforming pots into characters and presenting them as if they were self-portraits, he creates a unique worldview that navigates the space between “old” and “new,” and between the digital and the real.

Tomoya Sakai (TOMOYA SAKAI) takes the forms created on the potter’s wheel and combines them to evolve into his own unique sculptures. He transforms everyday scenes and fragments of memory into tangible forms, continually exploring new possibilities for expression in ceramics.

“Form is the result, and attitude precedes it all.”

This exhibition allows visitors to experience not only the “form” of the works themselves, but also the “attitude” with which the artists have engaged with clay throughout the creative process. Moving beyond the fruitless debate over whether these are crafts or art, it is sure to help you rediscover the fascination of clay as a material.

An opening reception open to the public is scheduled to begin at 6:00 p.m. on the first day, Friday, September 11. All four artists are expected to be present at the gallery that day, so please be sure to come and experience their works and ideas firsthand.