À propos de Koji Arata (b. 1938)

Born in Asahikawa, Hokkaido in 1938, Koji Arata studied oil painting before turning to ceramics. Beginning in the 1950s, his works were regularly selected for major national exhibitions including the Japan Ceramics Exhibition, the Japan Art Crafts Association (Kogei), and the Nitten Exhibition.

He received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Mainichi Newspaper Prize at the Japan Ceramics Exhibition, the Minister of Education Prize at the Tokai Traditional Crafts Exhibition, and the Hokkaido Cultural Encouragement Prize in 1960. In 1961 he received the Excellence Award from the Eastern Japan Branch of the Japan Kogei Association.

Alongside his exhibition activities, he produced ceramic murals, sculptures, and architectural works for public institutions, schools, hotels, and private companies throughout Japan, particularly in Hokkaido.

Arata’s works are made using the iron-rich local clay of Kasama and are known for their finely carved geometric green surfaces and complex decorative patterns. The textured surfaces of this vase is achieved through the application of sprayed nickel oxide glaze before firing.