Hands-on Ceramics Workshop with Akira Satake "Finding the beauty in imperfection", January 16-18, 2027
Hands-on Ceramics Workshop with Akira Satake "Finding the beauty in imperfection", January 16-18, 2027
Thank you for your interest! This workshop has sold out. Please join the waiting list and we’ll let you know when a space becomes available.
I will be leading a hands-on hand building and wheel throwing workshop sharing techniques I use when making my tea ceremony bowls, yunomi, sake vessels, tea pots, plates, ikebana vases, and sculptural objects. (The number of wheels is limited, but we can share!)
Participants will learn to create rich surfaces inspired by the natural world. Techniques will include:
1) Handbuilding Satake style stretched kohiki to make cups, teapots, etc., with a reed teapot handle demonstration.
2) "Kurinuki" technique to make a sculpture/vase, chawan, box, etc.
3) Using wheel and/or handbuilding: Adding Dobe mortar on the pieces to make yunomi, chawan, sake bottles, plates, etc. (We have a limited number of wheels available, but sharing should work just fine.)
I will also be sharing my experience and knowledge in a discussion of the Japanese aesthetic. I will also be sharing my experience and knowledge in a discussion of the Japanese aesthetic. Participants will gain insight in finding the beauty in imperfection, the meaning of "wabi-sabi," and the importance of "ma" -- the space in between.
Open to all levels of experience. No wheel throwing experience necessary.
Cost: $595 ($500 + material and lab fee $95)
January 16-18, 2027
9:00 am-3:00 pm
at Parker School Ceramics Studio
65-1224 Lindsey Road
Kamuela, HI 96743
GENERAL INFO
WORKSHOP REVIEWS
The workshop with Akira exceeded every expectation. He beautifully connected the philosophy behind his pottery with his pieces, giving me a much deeper appreciation for the Japanese techniques I had hoped to learn. I came away with far more than I anticipated, from subtle nuances that improved my clay techniques to a richer understanding of the thought, discipline, and artistry that shape my work.
—Lisa (August, 2026, workshop in Asheville, NC)
I had the privilege of participating in a 5 day in-person workshop in October 2023. I am new to pottery and prior to this workshop, I had only thrown a few bowls and cups and only hand built two pieces. On the first day during introductions I thought I was out of my league. Some of the other participants had more than 20 years experience in pottery and a few were teachers themselves. Akira had a style of teaching that kept everyone focused and enthused. He's funny and is open to every question regarding his technique. His assistants Matt and Laura were great... always willing to step in and provide help when needed.
I encourage anyone to take the opportunity to learn from a master. Akira's style and words of wisdom are inspiring and there for the taking. Go for it, I did and will never look back as I move forward seeking my own path.
Thanks for the Lesson Akira!!!
—John (October, 2023, workshop in Asheville, NC)