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Akiko Hirai
Akiko Hirai is a ceramicist making decorative artworks and tableware. Using Japanese pottery techniques to create contemporary ceramics, her forms are simple and satisfying, with deeply textured surfaces featuring calm, cool colours.
Akiko studied at The University of Westminster and Central St Martins. She is currently the Head of Ceramics at Kensington and Chelsea College. Her studio forms part of The Chocolate Factory N16 in Stoke Newington.
Maker's Story
Akiko Hirai is a ceramicist making decorative artworks and tableware. Using Japanese pottery techniques to create contemporary ceramics, her forms are simple and satisfying, with deeply textured surfaces featuring calm, cool colours. Akiko studied at The University of Westminster and Central St Martins, and she is currently the Head of Ceramics at Kensington and Chelsea College. Her studio forms part of The Chocolate Factory N16 in Stoke Newington.
Maker's Quote
Some of my work may appear to be imperfect. Perfection contains only one message, which is clearly defined by the maker. My attempt is to express the condition of progress in my work; something ambiguous, unsettled and imaginative, so that the user of my work sees the journey the object has taken, from raw clay to firing.
Ceramicist
The Process
Akiko’s work is an exploration of contrast; the juxtaposition of coarse clay and translucent glaze. Her skillful manipulation of both is exposed to the alchemy of the kiln, ensuring that every piece is unique and celebrates imperfection and chance.
The Process
