Isuru Yamamoto was born in 1944 in Bizen. From a young age, he was immersed in an artistic environment, influenced by his father, Toshu Yamamoto, a renowned ceramist. After high school, he attended Musashino University of the Arts, where he earned a degree in sculpture in 1967, followed by a major in sculpture in 1968. His passion for art led him to continue his studies at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris for two years, where he refined his techniques and broadened his artistic horizons.

Returning to Japan in 1970, he began working under his father's tutelage, which marked the beginning of his pottery career. In 1975, he built his own kiln in Imbe, Okayama, and became independent. It was during this period that he developed the original technique of "tatakikomi," a clay shaping technique. His talent and innovation earned him full membership in the Kogei Association of Japan in 1979.

His work quickly gained recognition, and in 1982, he was appointed an artist of the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition. He then began to explore the technique of "shussai," a clay coloring technique that required great mastery of firing. By 1983, his works had been featured in prestigious exhibitions such as the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

In 1989, he innovated again by developing the "tsumiage" technique. This innovative method involves stacking clay segments, creating complex shapes and textures. His works are frequently selected for international exhibitions, and he became a respected judge for the Kogei Association of Japan in 1992.

Yamamoto continued his artistic explorations using Bizen and Burgundy clays, which he mixed to develop his technique by giving the clay greater flexibility. This also led to an exhibition at the Château de Ratilly in 1996 after working there in residency. He is recognized for his ability to fuse Japanese and European traditions in his creations. In 2003, he was selected for the 17th Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition, and his works continue to attract international attention, including at the Asian Contemporary Art Fair in New York in 2006 and SOFA Chicago that same year.

His contributions to ceramic art are widely recognized. In 2012, he was designated an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture. His works are included in numerous prestigious public collections, including the Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, the Portland Art Museum, and the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Izuru Yamamoto still lives and works in Okayama, where he continues to teach and share his expertise with new generations of artists. His career is marked by a relentless pursuit of perfection and a deep respect for the materials he uses, making him an iconic figure in the world of contemporary ceramics.

42.5 x 9.8cm approximately 

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