2025-2026 New Japanese Clay (Illuminating the Diverse Forms, Textures, and Techniques of Contemporary Ceramics from Japan)NEW

New Japanese Clay explores how contemporary artists in Japan are reshaping a centuries-old ceramic tradition. From rugged, stone-like masses to forms as airy as folded paper, these works spotlight color, texture, and sculptural experimentation that redefine what clay can be.

Dates
Aug 15, 2025 - Feb 2, 2026

Time
Museum Hours - Thu: 1 pm - 8 pm • Fri - Mon: 10 am - 5 pm • Tue - Wed: Closed

Gallery
Hambrecht Contemporary Gallery

Details
Infused with color and sculptural audacity, contemporary Japanese ceramics reveal a boundless reimagining of clay. Rugged forms recall stone and soil, while others unfold with the delicacy of paper or the airiness of billowing cloth. Together, these works push the boundaries of function and embrace a purely sculptural experience for the 21st century.

• Highlights include innovative materials and methods that challenge vessel conventions
• Features a new generation of potters building on the mingei folk art legacy while charting experimental paths
• Curated by Chief Curator Dr. Robert Mintz, with insights into maker processes and studio practice
• Complements the museum’s broader collection of modern and contemporary Japanese ceramics

Upcoming Tours
• Sat, October 25 - 11:00 am - Exhibition Tour
• Sat, October 25 - 3:30 pm - Exhibition Tour
• Sun, October 26 - 3:30 pm - Exhibition Tour

Location
Asian Art Museum - Chong-Moon Lee Center for Asian Art and Culture
200 Larkin Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
415.581.3500

Tickets
Timed entry recommended. Members receive free admission.

Organizers & Sponsors
New Japanese Clay is organized by the Asian Art Museum. All works are from the collection of Dr. Phyllis A. Kempner and Dr. David D. Stein. Presentation made possible with support from Tania and Michael Stepanian. Sustained support is generously provided by the Akiko Yamazaki and Jerry Yang Endowment Fund for Exhibitions and the Kao/Williams Contemporary Art Exhibitions Fund.

Parking
Nearby garages and street parking available. Refer to museum directions for options.

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