Hiroshi Toyofuku

Hiroshi Toyofuku is a ceramic artist living and working in the Bizen area of Okayama Prefecture, Japan where Bizen Pottery is produced. The 1000- year history of this pottery is characterised by unglazed, wood-fired kilns, and kiln firing that lasts more than a week. All Bizen Pottery makers insist on decorating their pieces according to the clay's expression, the changes in the flame during firing, and the ashes. Toyofuku's pottery is characterised by the expression of the clay. The marbled, stratified surface of the clay, which shows the expression of the clay as it was dug out, is a powerful and complex expression of nature, and is attractive enough in itself. The shape is designed to show it effectively. At first glance, it appears to be a complex series of overlapping surfaces, but it is a very simple form that is assembled with regularity. It is made by piling up string-like clay. It is one of the most primitive methods. By firing in a wood-fired kiln, the world of Bizen Pottery is being expanded. 

Toyofuku is not originally from Bizen. While watching Japanese folk performing arts in college, he became interested in the unique culture of the area. The movements, costumes and tools of the performing arts are also the starting point for his creative work. He came to Bizen because he was very interested in the wood-fired kilns that have been used since prehistoric times.

In 2001, Toyofuku won the Encouragement Prize at the Tabe Art Museum Grand Prize "Chanoyu no Zokei Exhibition" before becoming independent, and in 2007, he established his own kiln and has been exhibiting his works annually in Japan.