Togo, Ehime Pref. When I arrive at Mustakivi’s flagship store in Toko, Ehime Prefecture, I am greeted quietly by 82-year-old Ehime-born designer Fujiwo Ishimoto. He opened the back door and opened the door next door and waved me in. We pass the kiln room and enter a studio filled with ceramic pieces.
Fans of Finnish brand Marimekko may be familiar with Ishimoto’s colorful, nature-inspired designs. He created over 400 patterns and designs during his 32-year career with the company founded by Armi Ratia (1912-79), one of Finland’s most famous designers and entrepreneurs. But it was the work of another Marimekko artist that caught Ishimoto’s attention years before he arrived in the country.
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