family
Ultimately, Jorge branched out and began working on his own. He pulled
inspiration from his multi-cultural upbringing, using colors and his natural
artistry to create dynamic, bold pieces. Over the years, Itokazu has built quite
a following, holding exhibits, receiving awards and teaching classes for all
skill levels. He and his work have become a benchmark for experienced and
aspiring potters alike to create from their souls, putting their true emotions
into their craft.
When you get to the Mud Factory to begin your Shi Shi face class, everything is
set up for you. Jorge greets you as you file in with your classmates, finding your
seat to make sure you’ve got a good, comfortable spot for the class. University
flashbacks are happening aren’t they? You look over the directions and tools
laid out for you, wondering how in the world you’ll create something that looks
like the finished Shi Shi face that Jorge has set out as a visual guide. There’s
a bare, unfired half sphere resting quietly in front of you awaiting assembly. Or
at least you assume that’s what is going to be the base of your Shi Shi face.
But did you come to the wrong class? Are we making soup bowls and not Shi
Shi faces tonight, you frantically wonder? But rationale slowly wanders back
in and reminds you of the laminated direction sheet and completed Shi Shi
face you saw just 20 seconds prior. Deep breath. Before you begin working on
your Shi Shi face, Jorge gives a brief history lesson, with splashes of humor,
about the origins of the Shi Shi face in Okinawa and Japan. He explains that
with each step, he’ll provide a demonstration, help if you need it and all of
the supplies and clay required for that particular step. He invites everyone to
gather around him as he goes over the steps and hands out the necessary
clay. Using similes like sweet potatoes, green beans and Hershey Kisses,
Jorge gives instructions on how to form your clay and how to use the tools
you’ve been given to smooth, score and place the clay on your half sphere.
All the while, he reminds students that it doesn’t have to be perfect. It’s not
going to be perfect and the kiln does wonders to remove the blemishes and
imperfections that only we see on our own work.
When the class is over, you’ll be surprised at how remarkably similar your Shi
Shi face is to the one that Jorge creates during the class. His instruction is
so clear and concise that it’s nearly impossible to make a hugely detrimental
mistake. And even if the Shi Shi face you create isn’t quite the same as Jorge’s
example, the class is still worth the experience and knowledge gained. You get
to create something for your collection of Okinawan keepsakes that is unique
on so many levels.
You can sign up for the Shi Shi face class as an individual, with friends or
create your own event around the class! For information on specific class
dates and times, contact the helpful Kadena Arts & Crafts staff.
New to 2017, we’ll be opening up the Woodshop to all ages 12 through 16!
Sign up for our woodshop basics class with your parent or legal guardian to
learn the first steps of woodworking. Class includes certification. Ask our staff
or check our Facebook page for details!
We’ll also be hosting Crafty Pop Up Shops soon! If you’re a crafty business
owner, contact us to see how you can showcase your work inside Crafty Things!
KADENA ARTS & CRAFTS • 966-7347
14 WWW.KADENAFSS.COM