Ceramic Classics: Shoji Hamada : A Potter's Way and Work

by Susan Peterson

Shoji Hamada, along with Bernard Leach, was one of the key figures in the development of studio pottery in the 20th century. His influence both in England and the US as well as in his native Japan cannot be underestimated. The Japanese government designated him a Living National Treasure" in 1955 and awarded him the Order of Culture in 1968. This book has been totally redesigned with colour photographs and a new chapter."

240 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1984

About the author

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Reviews

[Bianca Bernstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will continue to re-read this book all of my life. Brilliant.

[Lawrence · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Shoji Hamada - a Potter's Way and Work" by Susan Peterson. A specialised field. An insider theme. What to do? You write well enough to go beyond all that. Susan Peterson has achieved a remarkable balance. Somebody once said that reading The New Yorker was like slipping into a warm bath (or words to that effect). Ms. Peterson's writing ability reminded me of a New Yorker writer who wrote about cashmere, a material of no particular interst to me. But the writing offered something akin to 'immersion', as my Buddhist chums would say. In other words, here is something to satisfy the longing for what all bookish persons are really seeking. The illustrations are gorgeous. The established pottery people are going to buy this book, anyway. With Hamada on the cover, and comments by Bernard Leach, it's a done deal. I guess my review (four stars because only God is good, although one is tempted to risk the wrath) is sponsored by an urge to get this book out there among people who do not pot. Here is a great read that tells you all about the charms of Japan and its pottery tradition. Highly recommended.

[Emma E Frost · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well written book about one of the most important potters in history. I became fully immersed in the culture of mid-century rural Japan, and found the narrative very easy to follow. Being a potter myself probably made this book far more interesting to me, but if you are seeking zen, this is a book to read. Shoji Hamada's life was lived to the fullest, on his own terms, and without bending to external pressures. The simplicity of his life was achieved through his willingness to be flexible, and accept everything that happened as part of his life. So when things went wrong, he learned a lesson, and when things went right he celebrated. The ending was a revelation, that made me laugh out loud at his attitude to the world. A great read.

[Maureen Hetzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hamada Shoji was one of the first Japanese ceramists given the title Living National Treasure. A scholar spent Several Months with him, his family, and his workers interviewing him and documenting all the steps involved in created his ceramic masterpieces and his philosophy about creating. Charming and informative. Hamada does in 1978 and his work is highly prized my museums and collectors.

[Isaac Bishara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shoji Hamada: A Potters Way & Work by Susan Peterson

Part of being a potter is establishing a lifestyle that’s quite unlike the normal 9-5 job. Reading about how others have gone about the profession provides insights into our own decisions and can help us find our own way. Shoji Hamada is famous for being one of the first artist-potters in the 20th century, and together with Bernard Leach blazed a trail for us to follow. How did he do it? In this seminal book by renowned ceramic arts and writer Susan Peterson, you’ll discover why Shoji Hamada’s influence was so monumental not only in Japan but throughout the Western World. Susan takes us into Hamada’s home and studio for an insightful visit that’s sure to inspire.

[Travis Adams · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a ceramic artist and potter, it was nice to get a taste of everything from its roots. It made me want to dig clay out of the mountains. It helped me understand the importance of patience and how it is so blatantly effected in one's artwork. Very motivational.

[Astrid · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very detailed read to take you to Shoji Hamada's workshop. Just like many true and talented Japanese artists, this book will inspire the clay enthusiast like me :) . A great book to collect.

[Isaac Bishara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Legendary read...my cup tea