Meet Taiga Mori from Bizen

Taiga San carries forward three generations of ceramic artistry in Bizen, Japan, blending centuries-old traditions with modern innovation. He apprenticed under Gyokusyu Kimura, a renowned Japanese ceramic artist known for his work in Bizen pottery; and in 2000, inherited his grandfather's noborigama kiln named “Furraigama,” which he continues to use today.

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His notable piece "Doki-doki" is a heart-shaped clay sculpture inspired by the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Japanese onomatopoeia for a racing heart, symbolizing youthful passion and emotional transformation.  His work is exhibited globally, including at major art fairs like MYAF 2025 in Tokyo, Enter Art Fair in Copenhagen, and MoCAF in Manila, and is permanently displayed at Gallery Kai in Bizen City

During these two days, Taiga San will guide you with the process of making your own personal chawan based on traditional Bizen techniques and philosophy.

Day 1: Introduction and Chawan Making
Morning:
Introduction to Bizen ceramics and Japanese ceramic traditions by Taiga-san.
Explanation of Bizen firing methods and the history of the tea ceremony.
Discussion on the classical chawan form: the mouth, shape, interior angle, signature placement — why nothing is random in a traditional chawan.

Afternoon:
Hands-on practice: start creating Chawans under Taiga-san's guidance.

Day 2: Finishing and Tea Ceremony
Morning:
Focus on trimming and shaping:
Learning how to add and shape the foot (always attached later in Bizen tradition).
Fine-tuning pieces for balance and aesthetic harmony.
Afternoon:
Tea ceremony experience:
Enjoy matcha tea and traditional sweets.
Learn more about the meaning, customs, and symbolism behind the tea ceremony.