Born in Gojō-zaka, Kyoto, in 1953, Takiguchi Kazuo came from a family of Kyoto tableware wholesalers. He left university on two occasions before studying briefly under Kiyomizu Rokubei VI (1901–1980) and Yagi Kazuo (1918–1979). He also associated with Kondō Yutaka (1932–1983) and Fujihira Shin (1922–2012). Yagi’s non-traditional sculptural approach had the most lasting influence on Takiguchi.

Takiguchi later studied at the Royal College of Art in London, graduating in 1992. This experience abroad made him aware of the importance of the Japanese language in his life and work. Words have since become a major source of inspiration. Takiguchi seeks to give each work a unique presence capable of engaging the viewer beyond the context of function.

His creative process is both complex and innovative. He works with very thin clay slabs placed on a canvas attached to pulleys. By lifting the canvas at different angles, he shapes unique organic forms. Each piece, entitled Untitled, explores empty space and recalls the Taoist idea that the void defines the essence of an object.

His open, biomorphic forms invite contemplation. They raise questions about what lies within, making emptiness the central element of the work, like a Zen enigma.

Takiguchi has received numerous distinctions, including the Japan Ceramic Society Award and the Kyoto Prefecture Culture Prize in 1996. His works are held in prestigious collections around the world.

Approx. 26.5 × 68.5 × 26.5 cm.

Accompanied by its box or tomobako.