Masato Akutsu

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Akutsu Masato 阿久津雅土
Mashiko, Japan

Masato Akutsu is a Japanese ceramic artist based in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture, a town which is famous for its pottery tradition. Born in 1976 into a family of potters, Akutsu was immersed in the world of ceramics from an early age. After graduating from university, he honed his skills at the Tochigi Prefectural Ceramics Guidance Center. In 2000, he began his independent work at "Sōsaku Kōbō Akutsu" (創作工房あくつ), and he received a Special Jury Prize at the Mashiko Pottery Exhibition two years later.

Akutsu's work is characterized by its simplicity and warmth, often utilizing local Mashiko clay. His pieces are known for their nostalgic forms and gentle glazes, making them popular for everyday use. He has described his approach as aiming to create pieces that are "simple and warm," reflecting a deep connection to traditional Japanese aesthetics and the natural qualities of the materials he uses.