Japan has a longstanding tradition of creating beautiful ceramics, as a means to express their culture in tangible form. ‘Yakishime’ is a unique technique used to create pieces that are admired for their unglazed natural aesthetic. These beautiful wares are showcased via ‘Yakishime — Earth Metamorphosis’ at the Metropolitan Museum on Manila in BGC until 31 July, the first stop on its Philippine tour. The exhibit continues on to the Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) in August.

Through the exhibit, the Japan Foundation introduces the art of “Yakishime” ceramics to the world. According to exhibit curator Mieko Iwai, “It explores the history of “Yakishime,” from its origins to the present. Its use in tea wares, utensils for serving food, and its emergence as objets d’art.” The presentation provides art patrons with the opportunity to experience a sensibility and aesthetic that is unique to Japan. “We are excited to bring the cultural treasures from Japan to a Filipino audience,” says Ben Suzuki, director of the Japan Foundation, Manila. “This aspect of Japanese culture is not familiar to many, so we hope this will reveal another side of Japan that people can truly appreciate.”