Appearing as if they are on the verge of moving, Yuji Ueda’s ceramic vessels are complex, layered and their own abstracted compositions, both planned through his methodical process yet a surprise from the firing process. Based in Shigaraki, Japan—a place famous for its ceramic production and one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns—Ueda collects soil and wood from the region for his clay and fire for his kiln, the process for his pieces taking several months. Placed on the gallery floor, the larger pieces stand almost waist high, some oozing globs of celadon glaze and some with peeled-away layers, his tones earthy and organic with various crackled textures. While his vessels accentuate the fragility yet durability of ceramics, Ueda brings a thoughtful new perspective and dedication to the laborious process of his craft.

Yuji Ueda
BLUM
2727 S. Cienega Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90034
On view through May 4, 2023