A microscopic world brought to life with Ikuko Iwamoto's spiked ceramics

Ikuko Iwamoto is a London-based ceramicist is inspired by “the microscopic world” and makes intricate sculptural work out of porcelain. These vessels and tableware are covered in spikes or dots and focus on the unusual shape and pattern found in the invisible world of cells, genes and microorganisms inside our bodies. Unagi spoke with Ikuko Iwamoto on her work and plans for 2020.

Although each piece is intricately covered in double ended clay spikes, there is a delicate nature to the prickly vases and ceramics. To create each piece, Iwamoto slip casts the body of the bowl, then drills many holes into the surface and fills them with the clay spikes secured with slip. In 2018 the artist initiated a project to create 100 vases over the next four years, approximately two a month. You can see more on her Youtube ‘IKUKO 100’ on the process of creating each piece and her processes.

Iwamoto was inspired to create this texture by extended research during her MA on the visually impaired and how it would feel when your hands come into contact with the art. For some of the pieces, the spikes appeared to be piled up on top of one another which visualises the flows, fragility and tension within the forms. For each piece despite the sharp texture through the spikes, Iwamoto “found porcelain is an ideal material to create the forms I want to express with smooth finish”.

How did you network to establish yourself initially in the art scene in London?

I applied some recommended art fairs and exposed my work regularly, as well as popping in similar type of fairs and shows, and talked to participants to check event’s quality. I was also lucky enough to have my studio in the place called "Craft Central" after my graduation from RCA. There were lots of craft makers working in the same building, so it was great that I could exchange some informations.  

How would you define yourself as an artist in 2020?

This is the most difficult question in this rare and strange time, but at the same time it is very important one, I think... Nobody knows how our life will be, once the Covid19 situation has settled, and we all know that we won’t be able to live like before… including the climate change issue to deal with which will affect on every one of us' future life. Besides, how long this lockdown will go on? How long government will be able to support people financially? And how long we can last with this situation?

I hope I will be able to continue my artistic practice like how I have been doing till today, however, eventually we will face the day which everybody will be forced to change the way, no matter how you are planning the things… I think.    

Ikuko Iwamoto is still due to be exhibiting in Collect 2020, but sadly due to Covid19 Ceramic Art London has been cancelled. For more information visit - IKUKO SPACE