Misa Asanuma's ceramic pieces have calm impression, yet strong presence with hidden boldness. Let's take a glimpse into the background of her works.
WHY DID YOU START MAKING CERAMICS?
Because it was on trend.
WHAT IS IMPORTANT FOR YOU WHEN CREATING?
Take it easy, and create as much as I can when motivated. I try not to learn in a hurry, and try to shape clays without thinking too much.
WHY DO YOU MAKE YOUR PIECES BY HAND-BUILDING, AND HOW DO YOU CHOOSE GLAZES?
I prefer hand-building because I can do it quickly and easily at a friend's studio or a rented space. I wish I could learn wheel-turning techniques someday.
As for glazes, I use ones bought at stores, leftover ones, or ones I've been given. So I don't actively choose glazes. I select the glazes which suit shapes from what is available at times.
Japan has a long history of pottery, and there are so many people who understand traditions and skills. Rather than trying to catch up with them, I think it is important to have an environment and mindset which leads me to immerse myself in creating in an easy, fun and free way.
HAVE YOUR MIND OR FEELINGS CHANGED SINCE LIVING IN ESTONIA?
I started my creative activity after coming to Estonia, so I don't know if my mind has been changed. It might not be related to creative minds though, I enjoy and sometimes get disappointed at the difference of aesthetics and values between Estonia and Japan.
WHEN DO YOU FEEL HAPPINESS OR JOY WHEN CREATING?
I'm just happy when I get to the point where I feel, "This work is nice, for now!” Because, sometimes I end up spending a day for nothing, just moving my hands around randomly.
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
I usually take pictures, what I see in my daily life, such as cups, vases, architecture, furniture, etc. I look at them later and think “Maybe I should try to make them in clay.” My ceramic skill, which are not able to reproduce them faithfully, leads me to create abstract forms. This might be my inspiration.
ARE THERE ANYTHING YOU WANT TO CHALLENGE IN THE FUTURE?
I want to try to make my own studio. It would be nice to have an electric kiln, and also some space where I can do other things, such as photography, book making, etc.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FLOWER?
I like poppies. Not only flowers but its buds are already lovely. Stems have a somewhat weak impression.ORIFT OWNER'S COMMENT
She has a perspective to change unexpected things to characterize her works. I wonder if the boldness I feel in her works comes from this sense. Enjoy the differences, creating freely and with fun, rather than trying to get better. Her mindset leads me to remember the important things, which I had almost lost in my daily grind.
Profile photo by Misa Asanuma
MISA ASANUMA
Learned pottery from her friend and started creating, when studying at Estonian Academy of Arts. She works in various media such as photography, graphics, and bookbinding.
Website misaasanuma.com
Instagram @asnm33