Japanese artist Obata introduces Aritayaki in India
Yuji Obata is one of the few Japanese artists who presented his work to the Emperor of Japan. Obata's work in Arita-yaki porcelain carries with it over 400 years of history and tradition yet expresses a fresh originality that signals a future for this ancient art. And now, he has come to India to present a glimpse of the soul of Japan through this exhibition of Arita-Yaki paintings.
'Yuji Obata Exhibition-The world of Modern Arita from Japan' started on August 25 and will last until August 31 at Open Palm Court Gallery, India Habitat Center.
Self-taught along each step of his creative process, from turning the potter's wheel and kiln firing to decorating the surfaces of his pieces with delicate drawings, Obata departs from common practice in the Arita-yaki industry to carve out a special place for himself in this traditional porcelain art world. Not like typical Arita Yaki porcelain production, Yuji Obata takes his time, creates the shape, fires, and paints each product all by himself. He uses flowers, fish, and animals as motives. His favorite theme is cherry blossoms for which he uses a special Japanese pigment in pink.
From the decorative blocks to the intricate designer vases and decorative plates, he tried his best to present the Arita-Yaki form of painting in its most pristine form. As an artist of the Arita - Yaki style of paintings, Obata has devoted himself to the ethereal beauty of the Sakura tree. His creations captured the world of Sakura tree in all its stages – from full blossoms to the fall of the last leaf.
Born in 1961, the artist has kept the traditional purity of the Jin Gama Pottery Klin established by his father. He Graduated from Ayoma Gakuin University in 1984, completed his training from Arita College of Ceramics in 1987 and became the member of the prestigious Japan Kaigi Association and Arita Ceramic Art Association. Obata does not believe in the use of modern machines in the creation of his artwork. He had prepared by his own hands the porcelain on which he composed his Arita-Yaki pieces for the exhibition.
"The idea is to give new reach to the traditional style in Arita, especially the distinctive style that is Sakura. Aritayaki which is the oldest form of craft has always had a unique pull for art lovers", said Obata.
