10.10 SAT — 10.11 SUN
13:00 — 19:00
groundfloor Gallery, Nakameguro

"to UNDECORATED," a gallery-style lifestyle project curated by UNDECORATED, will be holding a joint exhibition titled "From Zushi, From Nasu, From Yoyogi" at groundfloor Gallery for two days, on Saturday, October 10th and Sunday, October 11th.

Zushi, Nasu, and Yoyogi.

This exhibition brings together three individuals who operate from different locations, sharing their unique craftsmanship and lifestyles.

This time, we focus on ceramic artist Akane Suzuki, who is based in Nasu. From what inspired her to begin ceramics, to her life in Nasu, what she values in her work, and even her daily attire, we unravel the time, environment, and personal connections that lie behind her craft through her own words.

 
01 | What inspired you to start pottery?
I challenged myself to a working holiday at the last minute, at the age of 30, and by taking that step to do "something I could only do then," I started wanting to pursue something new after returning to Japan. I had always loved collecting ceramics, and since there was a pottery market held in my hometown, I first started attending a pottery class as a hobby.
As I attended for about a year, my desire to "try pottery more seriously" gradually grew. It was at that moment that Kansai-san invited me to work with him as an assistant.
Starting my career in ceramics as an assistant there has led me to where I am today.

02 | You are based in Nasu; how does that location influence your work?
Simply put, I love nature.
The fact that I can work in an environment I love, surrounded by trees, has a very positive influence on me.
I can refresh myself just by taking a walk nearby during breaks, and looking at the trees calms me down.
It feels good even when I'm working outside, and seeing how the insect-eaten leaves look like patterns makes me think, "That's interesting."
Those small, daily discoveries are what make it fun.

03 | Is there anything you value when creating your pieces?
"Taking the time and effort."
I feel that the more I handle a piece, the more depth it acquires.
Especially since I’ve only just become independent, I feel like that’s all I have for now.
After shaping it neatly on the wheel, I might sand it down a little. In the final finishing stages, I might sand it again to intentionally peel back the surface.
I also choose firing methods that take a long time.
If I have a choice, I prefer the one that takes more effort.
I believe my current work is born as a result of putting that kind of care into each piece one by one.

04 | Tell us about your everyday style. What kind of clothes do you choose when you're working?
I often wear similar clothes every day.
I like simple, earthy-colored clothes.
When I'm working, I wear a lot of vintage or tough clothing that I can wash repeatedly, even if it gets dirty.
With vintage clothes, when they get stained, I can just think, "That gives it some character."
Perhaps I just like things I can wear without worrying too much.

05 | At "to UNDECORATED," we hope to create a space where communities can meet and new connections can be born. What do you value about human connections and community in your own work?
Moving to Nasu and expanding my community was a big part of it.
Having reliable people nearby who I can help and be helped by in times of need brings a great sense of security, and more than anything, it's just fun to spend time together.
Recently, my connections with other artists have been increasing little by little, and I get a lot of inspiration from them every day.
Each person has a different way of creating and thinking, and I have new discoveries every time we talk.
Even though our ages and methods of expression vary, I often feel that people with similar ways of thinking and sensibilities tend to gather naturally.

06 | Finally, do you have a message for everyone looking forward to this event?
I would be very happy if you could actually hold the pieces and take a look at them.
I believe there are textures and feelings that cannot be conveyed through photos alone, so I hope you will see them in person at the venue.
I am looking forward to meeting you all.

Akane Suzuki｜Nasu
Ceramic artist Akane Suzuki worked as a hairdresser and makeup artist before moving to the UK, and upon returning to Japan, apprenticed under ceramic artist Kansai Noguchi. She currently continues to create in her atelier surrounded by the nature of Nasu.
Her works, characterized by rounded forms, the subtle variations unique to handmade crafts, and deep lapis lazuli colors, cast a quiet presence in daily life. Whether holding flowers, serving food, or simply placed on a shelf, these vessels create a pleasant sense of "negative space" in a room.
Instagram｜@akanesuzuki_

— EVENT INFORMATION

Joint Exhibition "From Zushi, From Nasu, From Yoyogi"

Date: 2026.10.10 (SAT) — 10.11 (SUN)
Time: 13:00 — 19:00
Venue: groundfloor Gallery
VORT Nakameguro 2F, 1-5-5 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo

EXHIBITORS
EYEON general store / Wine & Sundries
Akane Suzuki, Ceramic Artist / Vases & Vessels
Whole / Flowers & Plants

Curated by to UNDECORATED