A Good Turn: Heath+Japan’s Akio Nukaga

  Brass and ceramic teapot by Akio Nukaga

As the devastating plight of the Japanese people relentlessly unfolded this weekend, an instant of personal connection to one family took place, coincidently, on Saturday when our pals at Heath Ceramics welcomed potter Akio Nukaga and his kin. They were on their way to Los Angeles when the 9.0 rocked their world, literally. Akio's studio in the Kasama region was damaged. But he and his family arrived in L.A. for the opening, visibilly shattered but graceful guests, nonetheless.

Akio's stoneware is made for everyday use. Applying 200-year-old techniques, the plates, tea and coffee pots, bowls and vases are every bit contemporary. In addition to the shelves filled at Heath now through March 27 with Akio's work, there are several one-off pots worthy of lingering admiration.

To help Akio rebuild his studio and community, during the event, Heath raffled a grand canister it made in conjunction with Commune and Alma Allen. But the surest way we can all make this happen is by buying Akio's work. Considering this means ending up with one (or more) of his sublime pieces, this is one good turn where giving has its advantages. 

Heath is at 7525 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036. 323-965-0800