Radical Clay is an exhibition of 41 ceramic sculptures by 36 contemporary Japanese artists, all of whom happen to be women.

As in other parts of the world, the ability of women in Japan to pursue artistic careers has historically been impeded by the burden of family responsibilities, access to training, notions of respectability, and lack of financial independence. While they still face challenges, shifts in social norms and expectations following the Second World War have allowed women to participate more fully in and make significant contributions to ceramic art.

Radical Clay spans veterans of the field, such as Tsuji Kyō (b. 1930), Mishima Kimiyo (1932), and Tsuboi Asuka (b. 1932), who remain active today, to emerging artists such as Mori Aya (b. 1989) and Kawaura Saki (b. 1987). Encompassing a breathtaking range of styles, conceptual approaches, and techniques, the exhibition celebrates their individual and collective triumphs and broader impact.

Drawn from the collection of Carol and Jeffrey Horvitz, Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan is curated by Janice Katz, Roger L. Weston Associate Curator of Japanese Art, the Art Institute of Chicago, and organized by the Art Institute of Chicago.

Lead support for Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan is generously provided by Carol & Jeffrey Horvitz.

Additional support is contributed by the Japan Foundation.

Image: Tanaka Yu, b. 1989, Bag Work (Fukuromono), 2018, Glazed Shigaraki stoneware, 24 1/2 × 21 1/2 × 14 1/2 in. (62.3 × 54.7 × 36.9 cm) Carol & Jeffrey Horvitz Collection of Contemporary Japanese Ceramics.