toshiko takaezu

Today I had the great privilege of once again visiting the home

of American ceramicist Toshiko Takaezu (1922-2011)

 I met Toshiko after a lecture event at a local college many years ago.

I'm a very shy person at public events but I knew there may never be another 

opportunity like this so I mustered my courage and walked up to introduced myself, 

telling her what an honor it was to meet her and how much I admired her work.

She smiled, took both of my hands into her own, looked me

straight in the eye and told me I must come and visit her.

That's how I first found out about her open house events.

Toshiko held annual open house events to sell her 

own pieces as well as showcase the work of her current apprentice.

I'm so glad the tradition is being continued by the current owner, Don Fletcher.

The blue orb under the baby grand piano stole my heart...when I rounded

the stairs and came upon that view it took my breath away.

Toshiko kept her loom by that window,

I was told it was donated to Penland after her passing.

It's always been a dream of mine to attend a summer workshop there.

To be able to touch and hold the pieces that are generally 

off limits at any museum was such a treat.

Inside many of her works are small clay balls 

which rattle and sing when the piece is gently shaken.

What an amazing day...

I'll be sure to visit again for their winter event.