Masaaki Shibata

Masaaki Shibata was born in Tokyo in 1948 and raised in Odawara. While in university, he became fascinated by the Mingei (folk craft) movement, which eventually led him to the allure of Tamba ware. After graduating, he relocated to Tamba and studied under Kazutaka Ikuta for four years. In 1975, he became independent and built his own kiln.  

A few years later, he finally acquired the slipware pottery of old England, which he had long admired. This Western craftsmanship, created far from Japan, captivated him. Through relentless trial and error—without initially understanding the techniques—he unraveled the secret to its beauty. He realized that true artistry was not just about surface decoration but was born from the deep integration of daily life and craft.

Tamba ware, one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns with a history dating back to the Middle Ages, has flourished in the mountainous region of Hyogo Prefecture, near Kyoto and Osaka. Rooted in nature and everyday life, it has evolved over time, adapting its forms to suit each era. 

Captivated by its profound depth, Masaaki Shibata continues his pottery practice with a deep appreciation for a beautiful way of life. As a leading figure in slipware inspired by Tamba ware, he remains dedicated to his craft, blending tradition with contemporary sensibilities.

 

---

1948 Born in Tokyo  

1971 Graduated from Chuo University, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Department of Industrial Chemistry  
Studied under Kazutaka Ikuta in Tamba  

1975 Became independent and built his own kiln in Sasayama, Tamba  

1977 First selection for the Japan Ceramic Exhibition, with many subsequent selections 

1978 Independently developed a technique for reproducing slipware  

2008 Became a judge for the Japan Folk Crafts Museum Exhibition  

2018 Completed a new kiln