Starry night chawan (matcha bowl)
Size:
height: 9cm
diameter 12cm (matcha bowl)
(comes with free 20g usucha grade matcha);

While studying architecture at Kinki University, Mino Daisuke discovered his passion for pottery through the circle (extracurricular activity group at university). This passion continued to grow and he found himself surrounded by compliments from people around him. Upon graduation, he enrolled in the pottery department of a vocational school, and later became an apprentice and studied under Okamoto Akira in Uji specialising Kyoyaki for 6 years. However, as time passed by, he felt lost and became hesitant how he could make pottery as job. It is hard and almost not possible to find your own style and be creative when serving as an apprentice.

Later, an opportunity landed for him to work in a social welfare facility that supports employment of people with disabilities. Not only did he enjoy creating and making, he also found joy in teaching. It brought back many happy memories of the days in the pottery circle at university and reinforced his passion for pottery. He valued very much the few years spent here.

In 2014, he opened his studio called "hachidori" (hummingbird) in Nara. The sign of the studio is handpainted by his wife. Since our last visit three years ago, he has moved to his new studio/home in 2022 and his son is now 5 years old! The bigger space allows him to be more creative and productive. He is known for making a wide collection of tableware, which emphasises simplicity and ease of use, as well as a fine collection for tea and sake. Although challenging and a higher chance of failure, he loves experimenting glazing. His signature glaze includes starry night and gradient. They are both magical to look at and to use.

He is as cheerful and bubbly in real life as he is seen in the photos. His personality shines through his pieces and we cannot wait to see you falling in love with them.

Behind each ware is a story. Our role is to introduce these stories behind different artists of the ware we use to provide a unique tea experience to our guests.

Read more about this artist here