Okugawa was born in Arita, the town where Korean potters produced

the first porcelain wares in Japan in the late 16th century.

The porcelains of Arita alsogained its greatest popularity through export

products to Europe by the end ofthe 17th century.

Okugawa’s family has been devoted to making porcelain vessels

with pride and dignity like the other families who work in porcelains

in his neighborhood.

Shun’emon became an independent potter in 1979, following an

apprenticeship with the master of porcelain pottery, Okugawa Chūemon. 

The artist continues to explore the beauty of white and celadon porcelain

wares regardless of the established reputation of his family.

His works achieve an intriguing sense of warmth in contrast to the

conventional idea of sleek porcelain ware.

Shun’emon’s milky white porcelain surfaces evoke intimacy and tranquility.

Not only do his vessels carry strong visual appeal, but they also possess a tactile supremacy developed through his decades-long pursuit of Arita wares.

Shun’emon received a Yellow Medal in 2005, and his works have been featured in numerous exhibitions in Japan and in major cities around the world including London, Shanghai, and Berlin. His work is in the collection of the British Museum.