Step into the quaint and quiet world of Ichikawa Takashi, one of more 120 of artists and makers featured in Hyakkō: 100+ Makers from Japan, to celebrate the exhibition opening.

Ichikawa Takashi runs a pottery studio on the foot of Mt Ibuki in Maibara City. His practice, however, is more than working in clay. He has travelled to various regions in Japan and throughout Asia and Europe to research tea and coffee brewing traditions. He blends his interest in botanical infusions and his craft into tea experiences, allowing participants to enjoy a delicious drink and beautifully hand-crafted objects at the same time.

This event at Japan House starts with Nagata Takahiro, the curator of the Hyakkō: 100+ Makers from Japan, providing a brief introduction to the works and practices of Ichikawa Takashi set against the concept of contemporary Japanese craft aesthetics celebrated in the exhibition.

Ichikawa Takashi then uses his handcrafted vessels and brews his thoughtfully selected infusion of tea, herbs and fruit. Working outside established schools of Japanese ways of tea, he inspires people to savour seasonal ingredients, reconnect with nature and share the joy with others.

The event concludes with an opportunity for questions from the audience.

 

About the Speakers

Nagata Takahiro
Nagata Takahiro has been working at Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd. (MUJI) since 2012, where he has been involved in design and curation for the Atelier Muji gallery as well as exhibitions both in Japan and overseas. Major exhibitions include Mingu (21_21 Design Sight, 2018) and at Atelier Muji Ginza Creative Imagination (2021), Japanese Modern (2023) and New Circulation (2024).

Ichikawa Takashi
Ichikawa Takashi was born in 1967 in Shiga Prefecture. He graduated from Hokkaido University of Education, Kushiro Campus and continued his studies at the Joetsu University of Education specializing gn sculpture. He studied ceramics under Morioka Shigeyoshi and worked at various studios across Japan. In his studio in Maibara City, he creates ceramics and makes accessories that complement his vessels, such as wooden lids, spoons and tea saucers. Apart from ceramic, Ichikawa’s practice encompasses tea gatherings inspired by his interest in tea cultures, wild plants and medicinal herbs. Through his tools, vessels and tea gatherings, he seeks to help people rediscover the joy of living in harmony with nature. His works have been exhibited in Japan and abroad.

Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.

Please note that this demonstration focuses on Ichikawa’s tea brewing process and philosophy. While a small number of guests may be offered a taste during the demonstration, tea drinking is not guaranteed; those wishing to try Ichikawa’s blends are encouraged to join the workshop sessions.