Saiseki zōgan, Flowing motif in stone

Kishi Eiko is known for her laborious saiseki zogan technique, building geometric forms from raw Shigaraki clay mixed with crushed fired clay (called chamotte or grog). The surface is manipulated with needles and other small tools, resulting in a complex surface that can appear to change dramatically depending on how close you are to the work. From a distance they may appear as naturally formed rock strata, while up close they resemble carefully woven textiles. Kishi trained at Kyoto Arts University and the Ceramic Research Center in Hyogo before establishing her own studio in her native Kyoto. Unaffiliated with any of Japan’s longstanding pottery traditions, she has been free to develop her own unique style.