Hasami-ware
has been around for more than 400 years and it is a type of Japanese pottery from Hasami, Nagasaki. It has been used by the common people from the Edo period and it is one of the most popular dishes in modern day Japan. This time, we had a chance to talk with Mr. Hiwatashi from Aizen-gama which is one of the Hasami-ware workshops in Nagasaki.
“One of the most interesting things about Hasami-ware is that there are not a lot of restrictions and it’s fairly easy to collaborate with other industries.” says Mr. Hiwatari. He loved creating things since he was a child and believed in succeeding his family’s workshop ever since then. Hasami-ware is known for its mass production but instead of creating 100 of the same things, he prefers to challenge for new values. Mr. Hiwatashi wants the customers to see and feel every one of the creations.
Collaborating with other workshops is one of the aspects that distinguishes Hasami-ware from the other types of pottery. Not only are they rivals, the workshops unite and cooperate with each other when help is needed. According to Mr. Hitawashi, Hasami-ware doesn’t require that much of an unique technique compared to the other types of pottery, which makes the workshops work their creativity to the fullest to make something original.
Not only does he always think about the usability of his products, he also has style and trend in mind. It’s very common to go through an agent or a trading company when selling Hasami-ware, but that often causes the craftsmen to go with the safest choices. Concerned about the creativity and the culture being held back, he also plans to produce more original Hasami-ware.
One of the unique Hasami-ware he made with “Talky” was the Skateboard chopstick rests. “Talky” is a pottery project where they combine traditional pottery with modern design and they teamed up with Aizen-gama to create a new and stylish Hasami-ware. He is also thinking of starting an order-made plan for a more personalized experience.
“Enjoying and having fun is one of the most important things. That goes for both us craftsmen and the customers”
We saw his innovative spirit and the love for the culture in his words