Roots of Running Vase - Okano Ricca
Drawing on the exposed roots of fallen trees, this item reflects the artist's thought about the power of nature and the global environmental issues.
This boxed shaped vase has the front and back. On the front surface, the layers of glazing colours fuse each other to make a vitrified pool. It is fired on this side up.
The vase is footed by many pointy 'roots'. They also grow sideways, as if vigorous plants found a way to run their roots. Jagged, rough, blobby surface of the bright yellow roots makes a contrast with the calm beauty of the vase's body. Both of them represent the rawness of nature the artist finds in the woodland of Karuizawa where she lives, and are incorporated with her mind-scape.
This item is functional vase and watertight. It is also unique sculptural work of art.
- Dimensions (approx.)
Height 15 cm / 6 in
Width 16 cm / 6.3 in
Depth 5cm / 2 in
Weight 1055 g
Due to handmade nature, each item is different in size, colour, and texture.
Maker
Okano Ricca is a ceramic artist based in Japan.Drawing inspiration from the woodland in the mountainous Karuizawa area, where she lives, Okano explores the interaction between her mind-scape and the natural elements.
Her recent works are functional and decorative ceramic objects that feature a striking balance between abstract expression and physical practicality.Each finished piece is highly original, with both painterly and sculptural quality, and full of sensory energy. The results often evoke viewer's original senses and connect strongly with their feelings, which makes her works much sought after internationally.
The techniques Okano uses vary from throwing and hand-building, to carving and slab-building, and she often mixes them. The surface finish is layered and densely textured with white slip, multiple glazing, brush strokes and sgraffito mark-marking.
Some pieces embody reflective imagery of water, while others have matte finishes and a tactile quality. The glazing process often creates drip blobs, pools and unexpected runs, which is a part of her spontaneity.
Okano's works include ceramic and video installations where a dual image of the physical and the spiritual world is visualized.Having explored abstract painting intermittently, Okano taught herself ceramic art while traveling. Later she finished a ceramic course in Tajimi, one of Japan's historic ceramic bases.
Originally from Tokyo, Okano moved to Karuizawa, where she creates her works and curates a gallery space with her partner and jewellery artist Nomoto Hiroshi.
Okano has exhibited widely, including solo exhibitions in Tokyo, Taipei and Sydney; group exhibitions in Madrid, New York, Hong Kong, Shanghai.
She was an artist in residence at Hakone Sengokuhara (Japan). She was given Taro Award from Okamoto Taro Museum of Art. Read more...
