The more one knows, the more interesting it becomes.

Sugitanigama Ichuan lies adjacent to the Sarayagama kiln ruin. The kiln and studio was named by Mr. Natsuaki's father, and was derived from the place name and an old Chinese proverb. Early on, Mr. Natsuaki did not care for pottery and left home, but later returned to carry on the family business. He is now solely focused on his pursuit of his pottery.

Mr. Natsuaki is very serious in his research of Old Karatsu ware, and visits kiln ruin sites to study clay and shards in order to better understand how they were made. He wedges clay everyday pondering how the craftsmen of old may have approached their work.

Clay and glazes are prepared by hand.

Mr. Natsuaki searches out his own Kishidake sandstone clays, and grows his own rice for rice straw ash. He spares no effort in doing things the old way. He forms his work on an electric wheel, but trims on a kickwheel, and fires his climbing kiln, stoking without sleep, every 2 – 3 months.

Incorporating Karatsu tradition and preserving old production methods, Mr. Natsuaki produces easy to use table ware for everyday use. His goal is to make work that accents and complements the dining table in all seasons. His work is available at Furusato Kaikan Arupino.