Tomoo Hamada: In the footsteps of a genius grandfather

[Hachiko]

The perks and pressures of being the child of someone famous can be enormous -- doubly so if following in the family footsteps. In Japan, with its grand artistic traditions, this is not an uncommon phenomenon. The results, though, range across a broad spectrum, from glory (not always deserved -- think of political dynasties), to competency (often bringing wealth and fame anyway), or derivation (mere imitation that finds a market only thanks to the family's "brand name").


Fluted vase

More often than not, the latter case is the sad reality, and a family's tradition can stagnate while awaiting a savior. It can take a generation or two's distance from genius for a vital voice to be heard again.

Such is the case for the great folk-craft pottery center of Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture. When any Japanese ceramics buff hears "Mashiko," one name inevitably springs to mind: Hamada.

Japan Times