Takashi Yomiya’s “White Tableware”

We sat down with Takashi Yomiya, who is preparing for his first solo exhibition at our shop in two years. While he has been working on a wide variety of items from his classic lines to new pieces, what especially caught our eye this time was his “white” tableware—a rare choice for him. We asked him about the background of these creations and his thoughts on making tableware.

White with Movement

Hanada: We hear you are making various items for the July exhibition, and we are very much looking forward to it.

Takashi Yomiya : Right now, I am getting a beautiful white finish from the kiln. It is much more “white” than my previous cloudy white glaze. The look varies depending on how the fire hits it, but it feels like a “white with movement.”

Hanada: What is the appeal of white tableware to you?

Takashi Yomiya : With white, you don’t have to think about anything when you use it. You can just grab it from the cupboard and use it right away. Of course, choosing which dish to use is part of the fun, but white is perfect for those times like Sunday lunch when you just want to casually pile up whatever food you made.

Hanada: What kind of dishes do you have in mind, for example?

Takashi Yomiya : Mostly reddish dishes, I suppose. Things like tomato sauce pasta, mapo tofu, chili shrimp, or Salisbury steak.

Hanada: That sounds like a wonderful Sunday.

Recent Thoughts

Hanada: Is there anything in particular you have been thinking about lately while creating your pieces?

Takashi Yomiya : I don’t feel the need to make a “statement” as much anymore. For instance, with this white series, I don’t worry about creating specific expressions or textures as much as I used to. My pottery wheel work has become cleaner, too. In the past, I think I was very conscious of creating something that looked “distinctively Takashi Yomiya,” but now I hope that people will enjoy using my pieces and simply realize later on, “Oh, this was made by Takashi Yomiya.” Early in my career, I was probably desperate to get people to remember my work. Now, I prefer just being natural.

What I Want to Make Now

Hanada: What kind of tableware do you want to create right now?

Takashi Yomiya : Cute tableware.

Hanada: That is unexpected (laughs).

Takashi Yomiya : I suppose so. But it is how I honestly feel. I used to chase after things that looked “cool,” but lately I find myself liking cute things. I drink less alcohol now and eat more sweets, so I want cute dishes that go well with desserts.

Hanada: It sounds like you have come full circle and returned to your true self.

Takashi Yomiya : I suppose that is who I always was deep down. When I try to make something cute, I feel liberated. Even with sake ware, when I try to make it cute, new ideas naturally flow out. I want to express that “cuteness” without being shy about it (laughs).

Hanada: That sounds lovely. We are looking forward to the exhibition.

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