Making utilitarian and artistic ceramics, I enjoy exploring the infinite variety of texture and color attainable through the malleable process of fabrication and firing. I like to incorporate a style of simple elegance in utilitarian work. The most important and meaningful things in my life are the relationship I am developing with my family and close friends. The notion that one cannot live alone intrigues me.  No matter how independent I’d be, financially and emotionally, I’d always be living within a network of people and community support.

I’m drawn to functional work because of its intimacy with the user. The idea that my creation becomes part of somebody’s life, being touched by his/her hands and lips inspires me. The idea that my work is enriching somebody’s every day rituals like eating, drinking, serving and entertaining motivates me. The technical challenge that comes with creating utilitarian pieces enriches my practice as a potter. I like to emphasize the hand made quality and tactile sense of clay in my work that juxtaposes today’s machine made, mass-produced goods commonly acquired in this culture.

I, native Japanese, met my husband in New Zealand. He persuaded me to continue my art in the U.S. where we now share a home in Mendocino County, California. I have a studio and a hard-brick soda kiln at home and receive help and inspiration from friends, my loving husband and our beautiful daughter.

Please visit www.satokoceramics.com for more work.