Mitsuko Ikeno started working in hand-built ceramics through a beginning class at the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) in 2001. She graduated from UAA with a BFA in December 2004. She is seeking an MFA from the University of California, Los Angeles. Ikeno is from Shiga Prefecture near Kyoto, Japan, which is known for a ceramic style called Shigarakiyaki, and Kiyomizauyaki. “Ceramics involves many complex scientific processes, such as types of clays, glazes and firings,” Ikeno said. “Each stage is an experimental experience for me . . . I am not concerned if the experiments fail because I am able to learn from the failures as well.” Her most recent work was a series of more than 40 baby figures for her December 2004 thesis installation, “Afterlife.” Ikeno received a 2005 Regina Brown Undergraduate Student Fellowship based on her proposal to research and study gargoyles on cathedrals in France. She currently resides in Anchorage.

Friends

• Clarissa Rizal
• Anchorage Museum
• 2006

Friends

• Mitsuko Ikeno, Clarissa Rizal
• Sealaska Heritage Institute
• 2010