Genjiro Matsuba
松葉 源二郎
Born in 1956 in Tochigi Prefecture, Genjiro Matsuba discovered pottery as a young man while visiting traditional kilns in Mashiko. Drawn to the quiet rhythm of the wheel, the smell of wet clay and the unpredictable beauty of fire, he began his apprenticeship in the late 1970s.
Over the years, he developed a personal style centered on simple forms, earthy colors and subtle imperfections. His work reflects the belief that pottery should not only be admired, but held, used and slowly integrated into daily life.
At Matsuba Kiln, Genjiro creates tea bowls, cups, plates, vases and one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces. He also teaches small workshops, welcoming beginners and experienced makers alike. His lessons focus less on perfection than on patience, attention and the quiet dialogue between hand and clay.
Today, Genjiro continues to produce new work every season, guided by the changing colors of nature and the memory of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.