Artist Reception: Ichigo Ichie: A Moment in Time – Presented by Alberta Craft Council

Join Alberta Craft Council for an Artist Reception from Minoru Ueda. Meet the artist and view his exhibition.

Artist Statement

Ichigo Ichie is a Zen-inspired concept that emphasizes cherishing the unique nature of each moment. This principle is often associated with the renowned Japanese tea master Sen no Rikyu. It also profoundly influences my artistic practice. As a potter, I draw upon traditional Japanese pottery techniques, focusing on the rustic elegance and understated aesthetics of functional vessels, as well as the inherent connection to nature first articulated by Sen no Rikyu. This exhibition features a selection of vases, tea utensils, and tableware that are central to the Japanese tea ceremony.

Biography

Minoru Ueda is a Japanese architect who was raised in Tokyo and currently divides his time between Calgary and Japan. He began his career in seismic engineering research, then transitioned to structural engineering and ultimately focused on sustainable architecture. In Japan, Minoru practices, teaches, and consults on sustainable architecture, while in Canada, he engages in artistic pursuits and volunteers within local art communities. His longstanding passion for the visual arts has flourished in Calgary, where he has found the time and space to develop his artistic skills.

Minoru studied the Japanese tea ceremony for several years. After relocating to Canada, he has pursued courses in sculpture and ceramics at ACAD and in printmaking at KOAC. He is a proud member of the Leighton Art Centre, Fairview Pottery Studios, and Alberta Craft Council. In 2024, he was awarded an artist residency at Workshop Studios, where he continues to hold the position of honorary member.

In Japan, Minoru works from various pottery studios, including Yuzan Gama, Hibiki Studio, Ebisu Cultural Center, and Naka Klin. He is also a member of the Kobuchizawa Pottery Club.

This is a free event.