Born in 1953 in Gojō-zaka, Kyoto, Takiguchi Kazuo came from a family of Kyoto tableware wholesalers. He dropped out of university twice before studying briefly under Kiyomizu Rokubei VI (1901–1980) and Yagi Kazuo (1918–1979). He also studied with Kondō Yutaka (1932–1983) and Fujihira Shin (1922–2012). It was Yagi's influence, with his non-traditional sculptural approach, that left a lasting impression on Takiguchi.

Takiguchi later studied at the Royal College of Arts in London, graduating in 1992. This experience abroad revealed to him the importance of the Japanese language in his life and work. Since then, words have become a major source of inspiration. Takiguchi aims for each work to have a unique presence, capable of affecting the viewer beyond the context of functionality.

Takiguchi's creative process is complex and innovative. He works with wafer-thin slabs of clay, which he places on a canvas attached to pulleys. By lifting the canvas at different angles, he creates unique organic forms. Each piece, titled "No Title," is an exploration of empty space, recalling the Taoist concept that emptiness defines the essence of the object.

His works, with their morphic and open forms, invite contemplation. They provoke questions about what lies within, transforming emptiness into a central element of the work, like a Zen enigma.

Takiguchi has received numerous accolades, including the Japan Ceramic Society Award and the Kyoto Prefectural Culture Prize in 1996. His pieces are included in prestigious collections around the world.

26.5 x 68.5 x 26.5cm approximately 

Box/tomobako