My First Artist Residency in Takeo, Japan

In May this year, I spent a month in Takeo, Saga, for an artist residency, drawn by a desire to explore the region where porcelain clay was discovered in Japan over 400 years ago. Nestled in a quiet town surrounded by forests and hot springs, Takeo offered me the time and space to fully immerse myself in clay work.

One of my favorite memories from the residency was the quiet, scenic bike rides to Hiryugama kiln.

Bike ride to Hiryugama kiln

Since the studio at Arts Itoya didn’t have ceramic facilities, another ceramic artist and I would ride electric bikes together every few days to Hiryugama, a well-known kiln in the region. The journey itself became a cherished part of my residency.

The lake

We would leave from our shared house and pass by a calm lake, a patch of forest, a few scattered homes, and wide open fields. Spring wildflowers lined the road, and their gentle colors made each trip feel peaceful and alive. It was during those rides that I felt the most connected to my surroundings— slow, quiet, and deeply present.

The forest beside the lake

Hiryugama studio

At Hiryugama, we were lucky to work with local Japanese black clay and Shigaraki clay. The staff there were incredibly kind and supportive, always making space for us in the busy kiln schedule.

Making patterned slabs

Though I didn’t get to participate in their annual wood firing this time, one unforgettable night we all gathered outside to watch fireflies glowing in the dark. That quiet moment, surrounded by fellow artists and the soft sparkle of fireflies, felt just as magical.

sanding after bisque firing

On Sunday, May 25th, we held a small exhibition to share the works we created during our third week of the residency.

Exhibition day at Arts Itoya

For my part, I presented a series of vessels— including vases, coffee cups, and small plates—made with local black clay and Shigaraki clay. These pieces were inspired by the wildflowers I encountered around Takeo, and were displayed together with the actual flowers I gathered from the area.

Other artists showcased a range of work as well, including printmaking, interactive ceramic installations, and a theater performance— all drawing inspiration from the local environment and their experiences in Takeo.

It was a meaningful day to connect with the community and celebrate the creative energy we’ve shared over the past few weeks.

The patterns that are inspired by the wildflowers in Takeo

This was my first time doing an artist residency abroad, and it turned out to be such a beautiful and unforgettable experience.

Takeo is a place that left a deep impression on me— and one I truly hope to return to someday.