TANI Q 谷穹 b. 1977

Tani Kyu (also known as Tani Q- a play on the pronunciation of “Kyu”) studied the ceramic tradition of Shigaraki from a young age. This genre of ash glaze was inherited from his father’s family. During his lifetime study, he became interested in Old-Shigaraki ware, and started excavation of old kilns to collect examples of the style. His discerning eyes and knowledge allowed him to establish his own Anagama-kiln in 2007. From then, he has uniquely presented Shigaraki clay to us. His clay surface is sensitive and gentle as if they are pencil drawings, wood ash kisses his objects as they catch the light on his surfaces.