ETSY SPOTLIGHT: Koji Kitaoka

Shinogi Mug Cup ($30)

Contemporary Japanese pottery is a huge trend these days with its handmade minimalistic expression featured amongst many of the most pin-worthy styled interiors. The elegant and refined ceramic mugs and bowls of Koji Kitaoka are a characteristic example of this style and it is a great honor to have him today on the blog talking about his creative journey, right after the jump.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your store.
I'm Koji Kitaoka. a potter living in Fukuoka, Japan. After graduating from university in Tokyo, I moved to London and lived there for two years. There, I worked at a local restaurant while studying at a language school. Moving back to Tokyo and experiencing several types of jobs, I started to think that I wanted to make something that will keep me ambitious and inquisitive. I also realized I was good at creative work. Then pottery, which was my father's profession, came to my mind and I thought I would give it a try.

From 2007, I studied at Arita College of Ceramics for two years. After graduation, I worked at a pottery studio in Toki, Gifu for a year. In 2010, I moved back to Fukuoka, my hometown, to work at my father’s studio and got established. My studio is in an environment of small forests, about 10 kilometers from the center of Fukuoka city.

I met the people (sales assistants) who want to introduce my pieces abroad at local craft fairs, and they helped me open my Etsy store 2 years ago.

Shinogi bowl 8.3in ($42)

What is it that makes your products special?

A good combination of design, shaping and firing. 

Which of the products you have in the store are the most popular with your customers? Why do you think is that?

Products decorated with Senmon lines. These are designed quite simply and got a unique expression on their surface.


Do you have any favorites from your collection?

Yes, I like my Senmon series, especially the bowls. 

Senmon cafe au lait bowl S ($30)

Trapezoid linen bowl ($30)

What influences your work?

Vibes (according to the mood at the time) and desire to create products. 

How do you usually keep yourself inspired?

A mountain of work can provide a lot of inspiration.

Describe your studio. What do you like the most about it and/or what would you like to change?

My studio is located 10km away from the center of the city and surrounded by woods. I have good access to the city but also a country environment. I really like this location. It’s got enough space for work and living, and I’ve also got a wood stove. If I had an air conditioner in the studio, work during humid summer time would be more comfortable!


How has your business/store evolved over time?

Each time I made progress, always I got opportunities coming from new good people.


Were there any defining moments in your career?

Yes. when I met my sales assistants on Etsy shop. They gave me the chance to be connected with customers overseas through Etsy. 

Shinogi sake cup ($15)

Shinogi Demitasse cup ($25+)

What is the one thing you would change if you were starting over?

Nothing!


What aspects of your business/store do you enjoy the most/least? 

My products can be found even from overseas via Etsy. That's the point I appreciate the most. These handmade products can't be made so quickly like a factory made. That's the point I'm enjoying the least.

Where do you see your business in 5 years time? 

I have no idea! That's it, really! 

You can find Koji Kitaoka on instagram and pinterest.