Masters of Japanese craftsmanship

Akio Momota creates exquisite porcelain, one piece at a time, in his studio in Arita. Mitsubachi is honored to showcase and represent his passionate craftsmanship, bringing his timeless artistry to a global audience.

Biography:

• 1971: Born in Arita, Saga Prefecture, Japan
• 1991: Studied under Arita Porcelain Master Shiro Soeshima
• 1994: Studied under Arita Porcelain Master Shunemon Okukawa
• 1995: Began creating his own porcelain works
• 2015: Opened his atelier, In-Blue Akatsuki

Akio Momota’s ancestors were engaged in pottery under the supervision of the Nabeshima Domain’s Arita Sarayama Magistrate Office from 1647 (Tenpo 4, according to the Japanese era system) until 1871 (Meiji 4). He has inherited his ancestors’ passion for pottery, focusing on form and glaze while pursuing a unique style. His works are inspired by nature—reflecting the blues of the sky, the browns of the soil, and the colors of Japan’s four seasons.

Akio Momota has received several awards and has been selected for prestigious exhibitions, including:

• Japanese Traditional Craft Art Exhibition
• Tomo Museum Exhibition: "Modern Days Cha-No-Yu: Its Use and Form"
• Japanese Ceramic Exhibition
• Contemporary Ceramics for Tea Ceremony Exhibition
• Tabe Art Museum: "Three-Dimensional Art in Cha-No-Yu (Tea Ceremony)"
• Arita International Ceramics Competition