Kurinuki is a Japanese hand-forming technique in which a solid block of clay is hollowed out to create an object, typically a bowl, cup or tealight holder. Unlike other techniques, which involve building up, kurinuki is all about taking away: the interior space is gradually carved out using knives, spoons or chisels. The exterior is typically left rough and organic with visible traces of the carving process. This gives each piece a unique character, as if it were carved directly from a rock.
The Kurinuki technique involves working slowly and intuitively with the clay. It is a technique that is all about intuition, simplicity and expression.
Can’t see the examples? Check out the board on Pinterest.
