Hayashi Kaku 林 香君 b. 1953

Born Taiwan
 

Hayashi Kaku exploits the malleability of clay to express her ideas through a dynamic series of sculptural works that are inspired by Zen philosophy as well as the elemental forces of nature. Most recently she has drawn reference from the powerful and ever-changing landscape of the majestic Kegon waterfall near her home and studio in Tochigi Prefecture. A graduate of Tokyo University of the Arts and student under Living National Treasure Fujimoto Yoshimichi (Nōdō) (1919-92), Hayashi explores the very essence of clay by challenging its flexibility, forcing it to conform to her direction in a time-consuming, physically demanding hand-building process complemented by a rich and varied repertoire of glazes that enhance these dramatic forms.