Public Programs

From August 6 through November 27, 2005, the National Museum will showcase 25 never before displayed ceramic art pieces by Toshiko Takaezu. This exhibition is Takaezu's first solo Californian showing.

The third of three conversations focusing on significant Japanese American artists who work with clay features Jun Kaneko. Jun Kaneko began his career as a painter, becoming a sculptor when he arrived in the US from Japan in the 1960's. He was educated at the Chouinard Art Institute and the California Institute of Art in Los Angeles, the University of California at Berkeley, and Claremont Graduate School. Kaneko has participated in over 200 exhibitions in galleries and museums around the world. His work can be seen in the public collections of the Shigaraki Ceramic Museum in Japan; the Philadelphia Museum of Art; Detroit Institute of Art; and the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian Institution, among others. In March 2006, Opera Omaha will premiere a new production of Madama Butterfly with sets and costumes designed by Kaneko.

By Invitation Only
For Contributing Level members and above, plus Arts Patrons members.

Join Artist Toshiko Takaezu and Senior Curator Karin Higa for an exclusive opening night reception and guided tour.

RSVP required by August 1 to 213.625.0414, ext. 2222.

For information about this event or the Arts Patrons membership, contact Member and Donor Services at 213.625.0414.

Master artist Toshiko Takaezu holds a monumental place in the post-World War II craft movement in America. Demonstrating the power of asymmetry, clean designs, and a natural color palette, she helped transform ceramics into a major medium of artistic expression. Discover the processes behind her work, as Takaezu speaks about her six decades of art making.

Photograph by Andrea Baldeck.

We've created a workshop perfect for the entire family. Drop in and create your own vessel inspired by those created by renowned ceramicist, Toshiko Takaezu. Just add your own secret inside and take home your very own piece of art.

Get messy in this beginners workshop and create your own unique ceramic art without the use of tools. Learn a myriad of construction techniques, guided by internationally acclaimed artist Setsuko Morinoue.

Finished pieces will be fired and ready for pick at the National Museum in two weeks. Workshop fees are $50 for members and $65 for non-members. Includes supplies and Museum admission. Ages 16 and up.

The second of three conversations featuring groundbreaking Japanese American ceramicists profiles Setsuko Morinoue. The Kona-based artist will "talk story" about the influence of Toshiko Takaezu, the deep connections Morinoue makes with clay, and her passion for teaching ceramics to children.

The third of three conversations focusing on significant Japanese American artists who work with clay features Jun Kaneko.

Kaneko began his career as a painter, becoming a sculptor when he arrived in the U.S. from Japan in the 1960s. His work can be seen in the public collections of the Shigaraki Ceramic Museum in Japan; the Philadelphia Museum of Art; Detroit Institute of Art; and the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian Institution, among others. In March 2006, Opera Omaha will premiere a new production of Madama Butterfly with sets and costumes designed by Kaneko.

Last day to see Toshiko Takaezu: The Art of Clay