Kurokawa Tōru 黒川徹

Tōru Kurokawa, born in 1984 in Kyoto, produces works of hollow-core geometric shapes constructed by winding and endowed with a palpable mysterious presence. His early sculptures evoked the natural process of formation of coral and plants, as they captured the dynamism of natural movement without reproducing a specific form. In his recent works, the shapes are inspired by mathematical calculations and formulas, but remain fired in a traditional climbing kiln, often using smoke in the natural process of firing at an exceptionally high temperature, which gives the surface a carbonic metallic finish. Through his unique creative processes, Kurokawa creates sculptural forms that are unlike those of any other Japanese artist.

He initially studied sculpture before focusing on ceramics, which led him to continue his studies at a graduate school where he still teaches. Early on, Kurokawa won the important Chōza Grand Prix in 2007 for his large mesh work inspired by blue coral.