Japanese potter Abe Haruya has been gaining recognition not only for his intricately patterned ceramics, but also for the hypnotic behind the scenes videos he posts to Instagram. What started as him playing with his wife’s smartphone has turned into a large following that can’t stop watching him shape and mold pieces of porcelain.
Haruya often works using a technique known as yokoku, which literally translates to relief. Here, patterns are carved into a mold and then pressed onto the tableware that’s been shaped on the potter’s wheel. He also meticulously scraps away clay to create detailed patterns along the surface of vases or edges of decorative bowls.
It’s impossible not to find soothing joy in watching Haruya manipulate the clay, letting it melt away like butter until the piece reaches its final shape. And as he shaves away layers of dry clay to form decorative patterns, the sounds are almost as mesmerizing as the action itself. Completely dedicated to his craft, he can often be found working on pieces for up to 3 months. His classic, beautiful tableware is available worldwide via Hanada.
Japanese potter Abe Haruya has gained a surprising following after posting short videos of himself working with clay to Instagram.
This longer video shows the potter’s technique from start to finish.
Here’s a look at the Japanese master’s tableware when completely finished.
Abe Haruya: Instagram
h/t: [Colossal]
All images via Abe Haruya.
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