Harumi Nakashima
Proliferating Form, 2016

Material: Porcelain

“Proliferating Form” by Harumi Nakashima (b. 1950) demonstrates the Japanese master’s signature vocabulary in a dynamic, rhythmic composition.

Climbing towards the sky, Nakashima’s twisted, fluid form encompasses intersecting organic masses which sweep upwards in a curvilinear stroke.

Additionally, the work features Harumi Nakashima’s signature polka dot motif which adds a further layer of composition and dialogue between circular and spherical elements. As the spherical forms diminish in scale as the work gains amplitude, the polka dot elements simultaneously scale down and concentrate in space.

“Nakashima has been a pupil of the famed Sodeisha Movement in Japanese ceramics from the very beginning. The movement, founded in 1948 as a reaction against the functionality, calmness, and folk-driven Mingei Movement, was meant to liberate the medium from the tradition of Japanese ceramics. As a student at the Osaka University of Arts Design, he was exposed to Sodeisha for the first time, and that has come to shape his entire creative career. Inspired by its call for non-functional forms, and for conversations with the international art movements, Nakashima developed a language that gives a tremendous respect to the plasticity and sensuality of material. He is a recipient of endless awards, and his work can be found in permanent collections of museums and public institutions worldwide.” – Daniela Ohad Ph.D