Katsumi Kako is a distinguished Japanese ceramic artist and third-generation Kyoto-born potter living in Sasayama. His artistic style is defined by a keen sense of form while staying true to tradition and tsuchi aji (the flavor of the clay).
Kako’s formal education in ceramics began at Saga Art College in Kyoto, where he developed a deep understanding of the technical and aesthetic principles of ceramic art. Following his studies, he was selected for many juried exhibitions and ceramic prizes. Known for his most for his Chawan tea bowls, Kako’s pieces often geometric with vivid colors and design. His work is marked by traditional ash glazes and earthy skin textures.
In 2001, Kako started a downdraft wood-fire kiln and began firing. His work has been featured in prestigious showcases and bianales accross the world. Over time, his reputation grew not only for his artistic talent but also for his ability to reinterpret Japanese ceramic traditions through a contemporary lens.
Today, Katsumi Kako’s works are held in major museum collections and private galleries around the world. He continues to create from his studio in Sasayama, drawing inspiration from the natural world and the evolving landscape of contemporary art. His enduring influence on the ceramic arts cements his legacy as a pivotal figure in contemporary ceramics.