"English Forest Plate" by Akiko Hirai, 2013

14 diameter in

Hirai's work is an exploration of contrast; the juxtaposition of coarse clay and translucent glaze. Her skillful manipulation of both is exposed to the alchemy of the kiln, ensuring that every piece is unique and celebrates imperfection and chance. She throws each vessel on the wheel and often facets the surface before coating in glaze. In accordance with the Japanese tradition of Shibui, she allows her clay to inform the firing process and embraces every irregularity and imperfection. Her plates are all one-off pieces. Of this particular plate, Akiko said, "very, very nice strong plate with great character."