Japanese Pottery

Pottery is a big deal in Japan.  There are several cities in the surrounding area that are known for their pottery.  Last weekend we visited Setomono Matsuri which is a festival in the town of Seto. Their specific pottery is referred to as Setomono.  We left early on the train in the hopes of beating the crowds and the heat.  We weren't really successful with either.  Evidently they expected over a half a million people to visit Seto during the festival.  

 Dachsunds are one of the most popular dogs in Japan.  

 This is not your usual festival food in America.  It is a rather healthy choice.  They are obviously cucumbers on a stick, but they are being washed with salt water.  Perfectly refreshing choice for the hot and humid day.

This sweet little family was sharing this spiraled potato on a stick. 

Sounds like a good snack to me. Especially if its fried and salted.  

 Some of the pottery is very beautiful.  I love the rustic, handmade pieces the most.

 I wanted one of these big pots, but didn't want to carry it around.

Again, not your normal festival food. 

 This guy wouldn't get away with smoking while serving food in America.

They had a cute section for kids to make crafts.  Or was it a section for cute kids to make crafts? 

This is the pretty mug that I came home with.  It is hand made, hand painted and pricey. That's what happens when you want original pieces.  

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Speaking of pottery in Seto, this last Friday I was able to go to a pottery workshop and make pottery again.  This time we were at a different studio with a very helpful sensei. This teacher actually has people come to live at the studio for 30 days to learn.  There were a handful of these students helping us that day.  Here is the link to his program. 

 Kneading the clay is hard work!

 Concentration.

 These are my final pieces, a cup, small plate and a large serving bowl.  We were able to pick out the glaze and they will finish them once they are dry.  I'm very happy with how they turned out.

 Kato-sensei and Nanda.  Nanda made two Ramen bowls and a larger one.

 Kato-sensei is demonstrating how he cleans up the bottom once they have dried.

 Can anyone guess what these are?

 He was showing and explaining his kilns.  Fortunately he speaks very good English.

 The paint pots for designs on the pieces.

This is the beautiful table in his reception room.  

The cushions are where you sit so it's all very low to the ground. 

I definitely want to return for more time on the wheel!!