Richard Milgrim is an accomplished ceramic artist renowned for his mastery in tea ceramics and his lifelong dedication to the art of chanoyu (the Japanese tea ceremony). Born in the United States, Milgrim developed an early passion for ceramics, which led him to Japan under a Watson Fellowship. There, he apprenticed with masters in Kyoto, Bizen, Hagi, and Mino, immersing himself in traditional Japanese pottery techniques and philosophies.
In 1984, Milgrim established his first kiln, Konko-Gama, near Kyoto, a name bestowed by Sen Genshitsu, the 15th-generation Grand Master of the Urasenke Tea School. Over the years, he built additional kilns and exhibited his work internationally, earning recognition for bridging Japanese and Western aesthetics. His creations emphasize harmony, combining traditional and contemporary techniques to honor the spirit of the tea ceremony.
Milgrim has participated in numerous exhibitions worldwide, including at prestigious venues in Japan, the U.S., and Europe. His work is celebrated for its depth, combining artistic innovation with profound respect for Japanese culture and heritage. Today, Milgrim continues to contribute to the global appreciation of tea ceramics, fostering cultural exchange through his art.