Fractured layers

Tsuboi Asuka spent her childhood in Tokyo, and later studied with sculptor Takashi Shimizu (1897–1981) at the arts-education-focused Jiyu Gakuen School. Hoping to become a potter, she moved to Kyoto in 1953 and from the following year she became a student of Tomimoto Kenkichi (1886–1963), the influential ceramicist and founder of the ceramics department at the Kyoto City University of Arts, which changed the course of direction for the next generation of clay artists. During this period Tsuboi Asuka exhibited her works at the Shinshō-kai exhibitions. At a time when women potters were scarce, with the guidance of Tomimoto, she mastered all the core ceramic techniques, from clay molding to wheel throwing, and ceramic painting.

In 1957, she co-founded Joryū tōgei (Women’s Association of Ceramic Arts) a first of its kind in the tradition-bound and male-dominated Kyoto arts scene. This pioneering group created a path for women clay artists and provided exhibition opportunities. Tsuboi drew inspiration from traditional Japanese textiles and the beauty in nature. Her unique style can be characterized by richly colored glazes and imaginative patterning that brings together traditional elements with avant-garde trends.

This large, perforated rectangular sculpture comprised of strata of undulating clay layers and diagonal interwoven striped bands with gold and silver glazes. It was most likely inspired by layers of fabrics and captures the gentle movements of that delicate material. The complex, dynamic surface is further embellished with gold and silver glazes that recall the rich textures of traditional Noh robes. The plaque that accompanies the work is signed 明日香造 (Asuka zō; made by Asuka), 良之識 (Yoshiyuki shiki; signed by Yoshiyuki—nephew of artist).