Tomimoto Kenkichi
Tomimoto Kenkichi
Tomimoto (1886-1963) was one of the early modern ceramic artists of Japan along with Hamada Shoji and Kawai Kanjiro and together with Yanagi Soetsu founded the Mingei movement iin the early 20th century. However, it was with Bernard Leach that he started pottery and they became lifelong friends sharing information on glazes etc. Tomimoto spent two years in England (1908-10) where he studied with particular interest the works of William Morris widely considered the best pattern designer of his time. It is likely the influence stayed with Tomimoto whom would later become renowned for his patterns on ceramics. Tomimoto ws an accomplished artist applying his drawing skills to underglaze blue and white ceramics and later to enamel wares. He was designated a Living National Treasure ceramic artist in 1955 .