Akiko Matsuda is a ceramic artist from Japan, living in the Scotland. Her passion for ceramics lies in blurring the boundaries between pottery and sculpture, learn more about Akikos' journey to ceramics, her creative process, and her upcoming tableware collection.
Lekàla: Can you tell us about your journey from Kanagawa, Japan to the UK? How has this move influenced your work as a ceramic artist?
Akiko: In 2018, I decided to uproot myself and move to London, where I was offered a position as a resident ceramic artist and teacher at a London-based ceramics studio. During this time, I became deeply involved in ceramic education, leading workshops and courses at various studios while also creating and exhibiting my own work. I expanded my career as a ceramic artist in London until 2023. In 2023, I relocated to Scotland with my little family, setting up a studio space in the Angus region, where I began working in earnest, experimenting with wood kilns and local materials.
Lekàla: What first drew you to ceramics, and how did you discover your passion for
working with clay?
Akiko: I studied calligraphy and painting from a young age and was much more skilled at creating two-dimensional works than three-dimensional sculptures during my childhood. However, when I was in middle school, I participated in a workshop during a family trip to Okinawa, where we made shisa (guardian lion-dogs) using local clay. I vividly remember being deeply moved by the process of shaping a lion with my hands using only the simplest tools. Around the same time, I had an accident that caused me to lose consciousness, and the experience of feeling my existence fade made me more determined to work with my hands to create tangible objects. This strengthened my desire to work with materials directly, and I chose to major in ceramics at university. Working with three-dimensional forms and crafts involves continuous dialogue with the materials, and though there are many unexpected challenges, each step of the creative process offers valuable lessons and a sense of progress. The ability to share knowledge and techniques with
others allows me to balance my inner world with my artistic practice, making me feel that this path is truly suited for me.
Lekàla: Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you approach a new piece or collection, and where do you find inspiration?
Akiko: I explore unique shapes by carving, reconstructing, and connecting forms that I've thrown on the potter's wheel. My goal is to create simple yet modern designs that bring a fresh, contemporary feel to a space. Since my concept is to create works that foster communication in the user's daily life, I carefully consider functionality during the design phase. I'm often drawn to lightweight designs
made from materials that convey a sense of solidity, such as plaster reliefs and bronze sculptures.
Lekàla: How do you continue to grow and evolve as an artist, and what new directions are you currently exploring in your work?
Akiko: Tangible objects have the ability to quietly accompany someone’s everyday life. Over time, they may change with their owner, becoming part of their experiences and a bridge to memories shared with those around them. As an artist, I want to be intentional about the wishes I embed in my creations and make my message even clearer in my designs as I continue my work.
Lekàla: You’re working on a collection of functional tableware pieces - how do bespoke commissions influence and integrate into your creative process? What do
you enjoy most about these collaborations?
Akiko: It's very refreshing to incorporate other people's ideas into what I create, as it gives me motivation throughout the production process. Additionally, knowing how my work is received by the world provides an excellent opportunity for me to reflect. This is why I want to continue improving my skills
moving forward.
Lekàla: Your work is going to be exhibited as part of the Dundee Design Festival, how did you get involved and what are you most looking forward to?
Akiko: I was invited by the Festival curator to create a bespoke bookend piece as a commissioned work. The ceramic piece I made will be showcased as one of 20 bespoke bookends designed by Scotland-based artists. The brief was to draw inspiration from the adventures of pioneering female foreign correspondents Bessie Maxwell and Marie Imandt, who embarked on an epic tour of the globe from Dundee in 1894. It was a very special opportunity for me to work alongside such a
unique concept. I believe many Scotland-based artists draw inspiration from nature and emphasize sustainability in their practice. I’m excited to learn more about the projects of other Scotland-based
designers and artists.
Discover more of Akiko's work under our 'Ceramics Collection' now.