Arvada Center Welcomes Takashi Nakazato

"To be truly innovative within the traditional art formone must possess a total conviction in the validity of the methods in which one was trained, tempered by a willingness to learn."

-Takashi Nakazato

ARVADA, CO – The Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities is honored to once again host legendary Japanese potter Takashi Nakazato. From September 18 – November 16, 2008, his celebrated work will be on display in his own show at the Center. Nakazato will be teaching a class as part of the Summer Ceramics Program on August 2 and 3, 2008.

Born into one of Japan's oldest pottery-making families, Takashi Nakazato initially studied traditional ceramic arts with his distinguished father, Taraoumon Nakazato XII, who was himself a designated Living National Treasure. Young Nakazato then took formal studies at the Ceramics Institute in Kyoto. In 1967 he traveled the world extensively to study other ceramic traditions. Eventually, he returned to his home city of Karatsu, where he established his current studio, though he also works several months a year at Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass, CO. Nakazato's work typically combines elements of his Japanese heritage with his own innovative style and technique.

Nakazato was last seen at the Arvada Center in August 2007, and he donated several of his pieces for the most recent Holiday Pottery Sale. Otherwise, his work has not been seen in Denver since his one man show at the Denver Art Museum in 2000. The Arvada Center is honored to have his work on display in the fall.

For the class on August 2 and 3, Nakazato will demonstrate traditional pottery techniques, making forms that have been in his family tradition for 13 generations. In addition to pottery making, Takashi will show the coil and throwing techniques he uses in his own artistic innovations.

 
The Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities is one of the metro area's largest cultural attractions, devoted to all aspects of the arts and generously supported by the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District (SCFD). For more information on Takashi Nakazato and the Arvada Center Ceramics Program, call the Arvada Center box office at (720) 898-7200 or visit arvadacenter.org. Discover the Arvada Center this summer and find art, music, poetry, dance, comedy and lots of family fun!

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