PERMANENT COLLECTION

OF

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, BOSTON

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Artist Statement

Clay, formed over millions of years through natural processes, holds a unique connection to both geological and human history. As an art material, it bridges the ancient and the present—shaped directly by hand, with each touch leaving a permanent imprint. Few other mediums offer such an intimate, tactile relationship between artist and material.

Working with clay feels like engaging in a conversation; each interaction alters its response, and this dialogue is captured in the final piece. Through this process, my work becomes a reflection of both my touch and the material’s inherent nature.

I strive to embody the Japanese concept of beauty, marked by understated elegance and simplicity. My pieces evoke refined, unobtrusive sophistication, and the patina of time imparts a spiritual elegance, rooted in a deep reverence for nature. My aesthetic is shaped by diverse design influences from the countries I’ve lived in but remains deeply rooted in the simplicity and elegance of Japanese principles. While contemporary, my work reflects a harmonious blend of global inspirations and respect for the understated beauty of Japanese art.

 Myself as artist

Hiroshi Nakayama was born in Japan and left Japan in 1973. He is mainly self-taught as a clay artist that began in Argentina in 1976. Due to the dirty war in Argentina, he moved to the US. He won several awards and received grants. One of his artworks is in the public collection of M.F.A Boston.

 My art

Clay takes many million years to form. Touching clay is connecting to the history. I found the charm of clay in a village of Argentina. Working with clay is like having a conversation. What I say (touch) changes its opinion (shape) and the conversation can be viewed through the finished work of art.

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