Otani’s

An Exhibition of Handmade Pottery

Aug 18-25, 2018

Nalata Nalata is pleased to host a joint exhibition of ceramic works by husband and wife, Momoko Otani and Tetsuya Otani. Aesthetically charming and ultimately functional, the collections by Momoko and Tetsuya showcase the abounding possibilities of the ceramic medium.

The collections of works by this master potter couple are distinct from one another, yet influenced by each other through the studio and home that they share in the historic pottery city of Shigaraki, Japan. Since they farm, cook and eat meals as one family unit, their work and personal lifestyles are connected, in turn informing the utility of their respective collections

Tetsuyaʼs porcelain wares are nuanced in size, pure in shape and remarkable in their smooth, refined surface texture. He uses the wheel throwing technique to create a variety of pieces from ornamental vases to tableware. They feature a pristine matte white glaze which is at once a fortifying measure and defining characteristic of his porcelain ware.

On the other hand, Momokoʼs iron-rich clay pieces are highly textured with layers of colors and motifs born from her love of lotus flowers. She hand forms, hand paints and utilizes a special sgraffito technique whereby surface designs are etched onto thin layers of slip.

To commemorate this unique joint exhibition, we felt it would be appropriate to work with both artisans to create a collaborative Hand Painted Porcelain Dinner Plate that involves both Momoko and Tetsuya. The results born out of this rare collaboration are exactly how we envisioned the blend of their specialty techniques coming together – the precise nature of Tetsuya’s wheel thrown works with Momoko’s intricate hand painted lotus flower motifs in indigo blue.

We are proud to present the love in which each handmade piece holds at its core and welcome you to vicariously experience life at the Otaniʼs for this special event.

On Friday, August 18, the Otani couple including their three daughters will be present at the opening reception of this exhibition, in which refreshments and specialty Shigaraki sake (brought by the Otanis from Japan) will be served. On August 20, there will be a bean roasting and pour-over drip coffee demonstration by Tetsuya Otani from 1-2PM.

View a recap of the event here.