Jiro Kumada is a ceramic artist based on the Kunisaki Peninsula in Oita. He engages deeply with the tradition of Karatsu ware, firing his work in a climbing kiln and personally managing the charcoal kiln, approaching every aspect of his production environment with sincerity. With a profound knowledge of kaiseki cuisine vessels and the culture of the tea ceremony, he draws on lessons from historic masterworks and patiently refines them into his own expression. He also actively exchanges ideas with artists both in Japan and abroad.