Shinemon
SHINEMON
In 1972, Shinemon I (Shinichiro Baba), established the Shinemon Kiln with the ambition to produce large-sized ceramics, a rarity at that time. Initially, he employed the sometsuke technique on his substantial ceramics, ranging from 2 to 3 feet in height, by applying deep-blue underglaze patterns on a white background. However, his focus gradually shifted towards the yohen technique, a method where unexpected colors and patterns emerge during firing, influenced by the chemical composition of the glaze.
His significant encounter with cinnabar, in particular, had a profound impact on the future trajectory of the Shinemon Kiln. Presently, the primary focus of the Shinemon Kiln is the creation of yohen ware, utilizing glazes such as ruby-red cinnabar and crystal glaze. With the slogan "brilliance of form, amazing effect of glaze," the kiln takes pride in its yusai technique, which involves layers of different glazes fusing together to produce a beautiful gradation of colors.
The second generation Shinemon (Kusuo Baba) is a prominent artist representing Japan in the yohen technique. "Yohen" refers to a phenomenon in which components in the clay or glaze undergo chemical reactions during firing, resulting in unique colors, crystals, and crystalline formations. The beauty of this natural occurrence is often likened to the mysteries of the universe.
In 2012, Shinemon achieved a remarkable feat by receiving the Special Selection Award in the Craft Art Division at the 44th Japan Fine Arts Exhibition (Nitten), which is considered the most prestigious award in the field of ceramics and art in Japan. He has a multitude of awards, including the Special Prize for the 50th Anniversary of the Prefectural Exhibition in 2000 and the top prize at the 2012 Contemporary Craft Art Kyushu Exhibition.
His significant encounter with cinnabar, in particular, had a profound impact on the future trajectory of the Shinemon Kiln. Presently, the primary focus of the Shinemon Kiln is the creation of yohen ware, utilizing glazes such as ruby-red cinnabar and crystal glaze. With the slogan "brilliance of form, amazing effect of glaze," the kiln takes pride in its yusai technique, which involves layers of different glazes fusing together to produce a beautiful gradation of colors.
The second generation Shinemon (Kusuo Baba) is a prominent artist representing Japan in the yohen technique. "Yohen" refers to a phenomenon in which components in the clay or glaze undergo chemical reactions during firing, resulting in unique colors, crystals, and crystalline formations. The beauty of this natural occurrence is often likened to the mysteries of the universe.
In 2012, Shinemon achieved a remarkable feat by receiving the Special Selection Award in the Craft Art Division at the 44th Japan Fine Arts Exhibition (Nitten), which is considered the most prestigious award in the field of ceramics and art in Japan. He has a multitude of awards, including the Special Prize for the 50th Anniversary of the Prefectural Exhibition in 2000 and the top prize at the 2012 Contemporary Craft Art Kyushu Exhibition.