Rando Aso^[10]

Born in Nara, in 1983. 

Graduated with a PhD in ceramics/porcelain from Kanazawa Art and Crafts University in 2009.

After Rando Aso completed a pottery course at Tokoname City Pottery Center in 2010, he moved to Gifu where he set up his studio and is still currently based. 

Rando makes his work using an open fire method.  He built his own kiln with bricks. During his study and training he became drawn to the tangible, natural appearance of unglazed earthenware.

While Doki* (earthenware) is made using ancient techniques, Rando adds modern touches to his ceramics in a continual pursuit of an original style.   Rando does not stick to one method of making earthenware.  Guided by his hands, Rando works intuitively to create beautiful work. 

In this collection, Rando has many sphere-styled shapes. After he creates the spheres, he makes dents in their surfaces to release the air inside.  He dries the pieces to maintain these shapes, then fires them.  He has said that his act of making dents in his works is similar to the long-withstanding practice of an artist stamping their identity on their work.

Rando’s earthenware is delicate and tactile.  He is not interested in practicality, and is instead focused on aesthetic.  However, he gains great satisfaction from people discovering his works’ versatility for themselves.  

*Doki (earthenware)

Doki ceramics are unglazed and fired at a temperature that is much lower than the fire used for porcelain and other material. A hole is dug in the ground and clay pieces are placed within the hole.  The pieces are filled with sand, wood and husks.  Plant waste is used to cover the hole.  The clay needs to be taken away from the heat just before it melts, which means timing is crucial.  The pottery can be very coarse and porous, which gives it a natural texture and appearance.