Speaker: Atsuko Kubota, professor of design, Okayama Prefectural University

Observation is the most important step to become an artist. In my teaching at the Okayama Prefectural University, I encourage students to observe the world with open eyes, and discover ideas before they start making a work. Unfortunately, the Japanese education system fails to foster independent thinking, therefore, it is difficult for students to realize what THEY want to create. This lecture introduces my pedagogical journey to teach the younger generation how to develop their own ideas and designs through practice of drawing. With open eyes. I tell my students, “Your creativity will be unleashed.”

Ceramic artist and educator Kubota Atsuko explores possibilities of pale-blue glazed porcelain ware, while infusing contemporary design sensitivity derived from the natural world. Recognized as one of the most active ceramic artists, her works have been widely exhibited and collected by major museums in Japan, including the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo.