Experience Japanese Tea Ceremony, Wood-Fired Ceramics & Conversation
Join us for a special closing event to mark the end of our After Ash exhibition with an immersive afternoon exploring the ritual, history, and artistry of Japanese tea ceremony and wood-fired ceramics. This interactive experience will be led by Dr Robin Wilson, Director at Oxford University Kilns, alongside members of the County Hall Pottery team and special guest Miyuki Arimura leading the tea ceremony.

The Tea Ceremony Experience

This intimate gathering begins with a short introductory talk by Dr Robin Wilson (approx. 20 mins), offering insights into the Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu), the role of the Chawan (tea bowl), and the influence of tea culture on ceramic traditions — including the story of Oxford Kilns.

Guests will then be invited to take part in an interactive two-hour tea ceremony experience, including:

– A serving of traditional Japanese matcha tea and a homemade Wagashi (Japanese sweet)
– The opportunity to observe, participate in, and ask questions about the tea ceremony as it unfolds
– Informal discussion with hosts and ceramicists on the diversity of tea wares and the cultural philosophy behind them
– A chance to view and handle a curated selection of tea ceremony ceramics up close
This is not a static demonstration, but an evolving, participatory event where guests are encouraged to engage, reflect, and converse.

Closing Panel Discussion
To conclude the afternoon, we’ll gather for a one-hour panel discussion on wood-firing, led by Dr Robin Wilson and featuring a group of invited wood-firing ceramicists. This open conversation will explore techniques, traditions, and the elemental power of fire in ceramic practice — with time for questions and contributions from the audience.
Whether you are deeply familiar with tea ceremony or simply curious, this unique event offers a rare opportunity to connect the meditative practices of chanoyu with the dynamic, transformative processes of wood-firing.
Book your place now and be part of this reflective close to After Ash.

About the Hosts 

Miyuki Arimura
Miyuki Arimura is a Japanese tea practitioner and ceramic enthusiast based in Oxford, where she has hosted numerous tea ceremonies in collaboration with the Oxford University Kilns. Her practice centres on the deep connection between tea and ceramics, emphasising the careful selection and use of tea bowls as a form of cultural and aesthetic expression. For this occasion, she will present a curated selection of speciality tea bowls from Keble College’s collection, highlighting their significance within the ritual of tea and their relationship to form, texture, and use.

Dr Robin Wilson
Dr Robin Wilson is a ceramicist, writer, and Director of the Oxford University Kilns, where he leads a pioneering project reviving traditional anagama wood-firing kilns and researching historical techniques in ceramic practice. His work bridges studio pottery, academic research, and community engagement, exploring how material traditions continue to shape contemporary creativity and culture.

Price: £30 (includes a serving of traditional Japanese matcha tea and a homemade Wagashi (Japanese sweet)