An exploration in color and hue.

Nerikomi is a Japanese technique of using colored clay to create designs and patterns. Although Nerikomi is a more modern term, the earliest known use of colored clay dates back to the 7th century.

In the Nerikomi technique, a pattern or design is created through a cane or a block that is then sliced to reveal the pattern or design. Objects of any shape and size can be hand-built with the sliced pieces of cane or block, and additional slices can reveal even greater depth of the pattern or design.

Neriage or agateware is a technique where colored clay is marbled together or thrown on a pottery wheel. Both Nerikomi and Neriage have a unique appearance as the pattern goes through the clay. In Nerikomi, the front and back, or inside and outside, of the piece show the same pattern.

I first came across Nerikomi while watching a pottery reality TV show a few years ago. On one episode, the contestants were given a Nerikomi challenge. The amazing Dorothy Feibleman, a world renowned Nerikomi expert, provided a brief background and demonstration of the technique. I was fascinated with the concept that the cane or block is built in one dimension, and then is sliced in a different dimension to reveal the pattern. But could I do that?

I thought a simple, accessible way to try Nerikomi would be by using children’s air-dry plastic clay that I purchased at a big-box craft store. The process was fun and the resulting patterns were very interesting! I was hooked from my first attempt at Nerikomi.

Since then, I’ve tried creating many different patterns and have learned a lot about hand building with porcelain. Most importantly, I have thoroughly enjoyed connecting with fellow potters through the amazing pottery community near me and around the world. There is a long lineage of talented potters who hold the universe of ceramics knowledge. Every potter I’ve met has been gracious in passing along their learning to me. And I’ll do my best to pass along knowledge to others.

I hope you find joy in the pieces I’ve created and that they inspire you to expand your creativity!