Yū Fujiwara (1932–2001) was a ceramic artist born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture, and the eldest son of Kei Fujiwara, a Living National Treasure. After studying literature, he entered the world of Bizen-yaki whilst assisting his father with his pottery, and eventually established his own practice. Building upon the vigour of ancient Bizen ware, he incorporated techniques such as scraping, brush marks and linear incisions into his vessels—particularly jars—and established a unique style that combined the texture of the clay with clear, defined forms. He was also active in exhibiting his work overseas and was one of the artists who helped to introduce Bizen ware to a wider audience. In 1996, he was designated a Living National Treasure as a Preserver of Important Intangible Cultural Properties for Bizen ware.

What one senses when viewing Fujiwara Yu’s works is a sculptural robustness within the rustic simplicity of Bizen clay. His jars, in particular, possess a solid sense of volume and graceful contours, whilst the sesame-like speckles, scorch marks and fire-coloured patina created within the kiln render the forms themselves even more striking. To me, unlike the gentle Bizen of his father, Kei Fujiwara, Yu’s works convey a powerful energy that seems to radiate outwards. I believe the unique charm of Yu Fujiwara lies in the way he clearly retains his own artistic vision whilst embracing the serendipity of clay and flame.