CHARIOTS ON FIRE: A RETROSPECTIVE MONOGRAPH (2006–2026)

PREFACE: THE CURATORIAL MANIFESTO

Chariots on Fire was never conceived as a traditional gallery space at 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney Boulevard. For two decades, it operated as a quiet cultural epicenter in Venice Beach—an instinctual bridge linking Los Angeles, San Francisco, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe.

Founded in 2006 by director Ritsuko Yagi, Chariots on Fire pioneered a philosophy centered on instinct, master craftsmanship, and raw material expression long before Japanese studio ceramics, botanical art, and raw-glazed stoneware entered the global design lexicon. Operating at the intersection of curation, commissioning, and publishing, Chariots on Fire has launched international careers, published definitive artist monographs through Chariots on Fire Press, and instigated historic cross-cultural dialogues. From hosting landmark U.S. debut exhibitions to co-curating major retrospective showcases at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Chariots on Fire remains a primary originator of modern design provenance.

EPOCH I: RAW CLAY & DESERT FLORA (2006–2014)

The L.A. & Kyoto Encounters: Adam Silverman, Kohei Oda, and the U.S. Debut of Makoto Kagoshima.

The Foundation of Chariots on Fire

Establishing an Independent Sanctuary on Abbot Kinney

Founded as a physical sanctuary in Venice Beach, CA, dedicated to rare objects, fine jewelry, and uncompromised master craft. From its inception, the space prioritized tactile material honesty over mass production.

VENICE, CA | EST. 2006 | CURATED BY RITSUKO YAGI

The Tokyo Discovery: Makoto Kagoshima

A Single Plate and an Instant Kinship

Director Ritsuko Yagi discovers the work of Fukuoka-based artist Makoto Kagoshima in Tokyo—a single ceramic plate etched with an earth-toned flower. An instantaneous creative kinship leads Yagi to invite Kagoshima to present his one-of-a-kind works in the United States for the very first time.

TOKYO, JAPAN | 2010 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x RITSUKO YAGI

Makoto Kagoshima: U.S. Debut Exhibition

Introducing One-of-a-Kind Sgraffito Earthenware to North America

The historic first solo exhibition of Makoto Kagoshima in America, presented exclusively at Chariots on Fire on Abbot Kinney. The show introduced Kagoshima's hand-carved, one-of-a-kind sgraffito linework, botanical motifs, and whimsical fauna to Western collectors, laying the groundwork for a decade of collaboration.

VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2013 | CHARIOTS ON FIRE

Adam Silverman Monograph (Rizzoli)

Bridging Ceramic Form and Editorial Art Direction

A landmark publishing collaboration directed and designed by Tamotsu Yagi Design alongside Ritsuko Yagi, establishing the formal aesthetic dialogue between studio pottery and published print works.

LOS ANGELES, CA | SEPTEMBER 2013 | TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN x RIZZOLI

A Tale of Plant & Pot

The L.A. & Kyoto Debut of Grafted Desert Flora & Lava-Glazed Ceramics

Commissioned and produced by Chariots on Fire, this historic exhibition paired L.A. ceramicist Adam Silverman with Hiroshima botanical artist Kohei Oda (Qusamura) for Oda’s U.S. debut. Silverman threw experimental, multi-fired lava-glazed vessels specifically tailored to house Oda’s rare, "ugly-beautiful" grafted cacti, launching a global desert-flora ceramic movement.

"Mutant cacti in pots with unconventional, often imperfect, glazes. Sounds strange? Strangely beautiful is more like it."The New York Times T Magazine

VENICE, CA & KYOTO, JAPAN | MAY 2014 | ADAM SILVERMAN x KOHEI ODA | TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN

Makoto Kagoshima: "Ode to Summer" & The Joshua Tree Expedition

California Light Infused into Japanese Clay

Solo exhibition created in direct response to the coastal climate of Venice Beach. Following the exhibition, Kagoshima accompanied Yagi on a spontaneous journey to Joshua Tree, an experience that directly infused desert flora, cacti, and California light into his ongoing ceramic narratives.

“What I create for Chariots embodies Los Angeles.”Makoto Kagoshima

VENICE & JOSHUA TREE, CA | JULY 2014 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA

Makoto Kagoshima: Ceramics & Live Wall Mural

Immersive Live Painting on Abbot Kinney

Second solo exhibition featuring unique, one-of-a-kind earthenware works and a live, hand-drawn gallery wall mural completed on-site over the course of the exhibition in Venice.

VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2014 | LIVE GALLERY INSTALLATION

EPOCH II: PUBLISHING, TEXTILES & MONOGRAPHS (2015–2017)

Chariots on Fire Press, August Editions, Tamotsu Yagi Design, and International Bookmaking.

dosa x Makoto Kagoshima (S/S 2015 Collection)

Block-Printed Textiles and Wearable Art

Cross-disciplinary fashion happening featuring block-print textiles created by Makoto Kagoshima and Kei Maeda for Christina Kim's dosa Spring/Summer 2015 line.

LOS ANGELES, CA | JUNE 2015 | DOSA x MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x KEI MAEDA

Monograph Release: "Grafted" (August Editions)

Documenting the Plant & Pot Movement in Print

Publication of Grafted, the definitive monograph documenting Chariots on Fire’s production A Tale of Plant & Pot. Captures the complete collaboration between Adam Silverman (pots) and Kohei Oda / Qusamura (graft cacti).

NEW YORK, NY | JUNE 2015 | PUBLISHER: AUGUST EDITIONS (DUNG NGO) | ESSAY: GLENN ADAMSON | PHOTO: JOSHUA WHITE & SHUJI YOSHIDA | DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN

Makoto Kagoshima x Takahashi Yoshiko (S/S/A/W) I & II

Ceramics Paired with Botanical Culinary Delicacies

Interdisciplinary solo exhibitions in 2015 and 2016 pairing Kagoshima’s hand-carved, one-of-a-kind works with curated botanical food art and custom culinary delicacies prepared by Tokyo chef Takahashi Yoshiko.

VENICE, CA | JULY 2015 & JULY 2016 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x TAKAHASHI YOSHIKO

Tenshin Juba: Solo Slipware Ceramics (U.S. Debut Exhibition)

Introducing Liquid-Clay Techniques to North America

Exclusive U.S. debut exhibition of Kobe alchemist-potter Tenshin Juba at Chariots on Fire. Introduced his foundational slipware collection and organic liquid-clay surface techniques to North American collectors, establishing his presence before his later expansion into high wood-fired stoneware.

VENICE, CA | OCTOBER 7–13, 2016 | TENSHIN JUBA U.S. DEBUT

Chariots on Fire Press No. 1: "Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics"

Documenting Five Years of Venice Commissions

Publication of the landmark 140-page monograph documenting over 100 commissioned, one-of-a-kind works created for Chariots on Fire over a prolific five-year period. Printed in Japan by Takeo Paper using Kaleido ink.

LOS ANGELES & TOKYO | JANUARY 2017 | ART DIRECTION: RITSUKO YAGI | FOREWORD: RYUKO KIDA | PHOTO: SHUJI YOSHIDA

Tokyo Monograph Launch at Morioka Shoten

A Single Room with a Single Book

International launch of Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics at Ginza's renowned Morioka Shoten gallery, celebrating the global reach of the Venice-born publication.

GINZA, TOKYO | FEBRUARY 2017 | MORIOKA SHOTEN

Makoto Kagoshima: "Makomons"

Edible Confectionery and Earthenware

Solo exhibition presenting unique one-of-a-kind ceramic works alongside custom, hand-crafted confectionery delicacies by Fukuoka confectioner Tsumons.

VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2017 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x TSUMONS

Tenshin Juba: Slipware Ceramics

Liquid Clay and Traditional Firing Methods

Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba's evolving liquid-clay slipware techniques and traditional firing practices.

VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2017 | TENSHIN JUBA

EPOCH III: SPATIAL SCALE, LIGHTING & TEXTILES (2018–2021)

Tenshin Juba's Kiln Practice, Architectural Lighting, and Spatial Fabrics.

Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics 2018

Annual Showcase of Sgraffito Masterworks

Annual solo showcase featuring rare, one-of-a-kind sgraffito platters, vessels, and custom art pieces executed with Kagoshima's signature fluid hand.

VENICE, CA | SEPTEMBER 2018 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA

Tenshin Juba: Outdoor Clippings & Porcelain Lighting

Expanding Ceramics into Architectural Space

Expansion of Tenshin Juba’s practice into spatial design, presenting large-scale outdoor ceramic sculptures and translucent porcelain pendant lighting fixtures.

VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2018 | TENSHIN JUBA

Makoto Kagoshima x Charlotte Perriand Dialogue

Staging Clay Within Modernist Architecture

Curated solo exhibition staging Kagoshima’s organic, one-of-a-kind ceramics within historic mid-century spatial contexts, echoing the material philosophies of French architect Charlotte Perriand.

VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2019 | SPATIAL CURATION BY CHARIOTS ON FIRE

Tenshin Juba: Cobalt Edition

Deep Mineral Glazes & Tea Ceremony Wares

Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba’s deep mineral cobalt glazes across tea ceremony wares, celebration bowls, and organic vessels.

VENICE, CA | DECEMBER 2019 | TENSHIN JUBA

Brooke Gregson: Raw Gemstone Series

Fine Jewelry Crafted in 18k Gold and Raw Tourmalines

Fine jewelry exhibition showcasing custom hand-engraved works, raw Halo Tourmalines, and boulder opals.

VENICE, CA | FALL 2020 | BROOKE GREGSON

Makoto Kagoshima: "Lovers"

Paired Motifs of Flora and Fauna

Solo exhibition centered on paired whimsical motifs—birds, flowers, and animated land creatures across dark and light one-of-a-kind clay bodies.

VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2020 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA

Makoto Kagoshima x Chariots on Fire for Christopher Farr Cloth

Translating Ceramic Sgraffito into Floor Coverings

Curation and release of hand-woven rugs and interior textiles translating Makoto Kagoshima’s fluid linework into spatial fabrics distributed worldwide.

GLOBAL RELEASE | FALL 2021 | CURATED BY CHARIOTS ON FIRE

Makoto Kagoshima Offsite 2021

Archival Works & Monograph Showcase

Offsite exhibition showcasing major unique, one-of-a-kind ceramic works alongside signed copies of the Chariots on Fire Press monograph.

VENICE, CA | OCTOBER 2021 | OFFSITE EXHIBITION

Chariots on Fire Holiday Market

A Multi-Disciplinary Venice Gathering

Site-specific showcase featuring Tenshin Juba vessels paired with floral installations by Krystal Chang, antique Japanese objet d'art, fine jewelry, and textiles by Gregory Parkinson.

VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER–DECEMBER 2021 | MULTI-ARTIST INSTALLATION

Tenshin Juba: "Bi-Metallic High-Fire"

Raw Metallic Glazes and Vitrified Stoneware

Solo exhibition presenting new high-fire stoneware showcasing raw metallic glazes and vitrified surfaces straight from the Kobe kiln.

VENICE, CA | DECEMBER 8–14, 2021 | TENSHIN JUBA

EPOCH IV: SALONS, FOOD & LIVING CULTURE (2022–2023)

Kyoto kōjin, Eye Eat, Tea Ceremonies, and Dover Street Market Ginza Releases.

Chariots on Fire Press No. 2: "Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé"

A Monograph on the Collection of Tamotsu Yagi

Japan book launch for Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé, A Collection of Tamotsu Yagi. Published by Chariots on Fire Press and distributed via Post Books / Dover Street Market.

DOVER STREET MARKET GINZA, TOKYO | APRIL 8, 2022 | GALERIE PATRICK SEGUIN x JOUSSE ENTREPRISE x LAFFANOUR GALERIE DOWNTOWN | DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN

Eye Eat Food Culture & Design Exhibition & Salon Market

Bridging Tableware, Food Art, and Spatial Curation

An exhibition exploring food culture and its relationship with art/design. Curated and art-directed by gallery director Ritsuko Yagi alongside project manager Junco Ida, delivering fine drinks, sweets, and beautiful tabletop objects tailored to the Eye Eat concept.

キュレーターを務めるのは、ロサンゼルスを拠点に活躍するギャラリストでもあり、「Eye Eat」展のアートディレクターも務める八木理都子。「Eye Eat」展のコンセプトに合わせて、美味しいドリンクやお菓子、テーブル周りを彩る美しい小物をお届けします。プロジェクトマネジメント・井田順子とでお届けします。

KŌJIN, KYOTO, JAPAN | AUGUST 4 – OCTOBER 9, 2022 (SALON: OCT 6–9) | ORGANIZERS: KŌJIN KYOTO, MAIN INC. | ART DIRECTION: RITSUKO YAGI | CONCEPT & DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN | SALON: CHARIOTS ON FIRE + JUNCO IDA | COPYWRITER: MAYUKO YAMAGUCHI | PHOTO: SHUJI YOSHIDA

Chariots on Fire Press No. 3: "Gerry Beckley's America"

Launch and Talk Event at Dover Street Market Ginza

Official book release and talk event featuring musician/photographer Gerry Beckley and publisher/editor Ritsuko Yagi, presented with POST Books.

"Moments of beauty in beautiful cities are photographed and designed beautifully. A magnificent photography book that could only have been put together by him who traveled the world over time with great eyes."Hiroshi Fujiwara

DOVER STREET MARKET GINZA (BIBLIOTHECA), TOKYO | OCTOBER 18, 2022 | PUBLISHER: CHARIOTS ON FIRE PRESS | EDITOR: RITSUKO YAGI | ART DIRECTION & DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN

Tokyo Media Broadcast: InterFM "Lazy Sunday"

Radio Dialogue on Travel and Photography

Special live radio broadcast feature on George Cockle's Lazy Sunday on InterFM Tokyo, introducing Gerry Beckley's America to Japanese audiences.

TOKYO, JAPAN | OCTOBER 18, 2022 | INTERFM BROADCAST

“Gerry Beckley's America” Exhibition at kōjin

Visual Postcards from the Road

Exhibition of travel photographs acting as modern visual postcards, capturing moments ranging from the abstract to the everyday across the globe.

"I always enjoy getting a photograph from Gerry on his travels, the modern equivalent of a postcard, a picture with a message. His keen eye ranges freely from the very abstract to the very real and can find the special in the ordinary."Margaret Howell

KŌJIN, KYOTO, JAPAN | OCTOBER 21–25, 2022 | GERRY BECKLEY x CHARIOTS ON FIRE

High Fire: Tenshin Juba Ceramics — Vessels for the Home & Tableware

A Chariots on Fire Takeover Staging High-Fire Clay Within Historic Interiors

In partnership with MIDCENTURYLA. Chariots on Fire transformed MidCenturyLA to celebrate alchemist potter Tenshin Juba’s high-fire vessels and tableware, marking a major evolution in his kiln practice. Selections presented were gleaned by Chariots on Fire directly from Tenshin Juba’s atelier in Kobe, Japan, and integrated into dialogue with MidCenturyLA’s home furnishings archive.

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA | OCTOBER 14–15, 2023 | IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MIDCENTURYLA | FLORAL INSTALLATIONS: LIESL FLORA

High Fire: Tenshin Juba Ceramics — Matcha Bowls & Tea Salon

An Intimate Gathering of Clay, Garments, and Matcha

In partnership with EVAN KINORI. Exhibition presenting the synergy of one-of-a-kind ceramics by Tenshin Juba paired with the world of Evan Kinori. Upstairs featured a transformation into a Matcha Tea Salon hosted by tea master Makiko Fujikawa (Urasenke Foundation SF) and Ritsuko Yagi (Chariots on Fire), offering tea served in handmade Matchawan with Kyoto higashi dry sweets. 100% of tea experience proceeds were donated to the Urasenke Foundation of San Francisco.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA | NOVEMBER 4–5, 2023 | EVAN KINORI STUDIO | TEA MASTER: MAKIKO FUJIKAWA (URASENKE FOUNDATION)

EPOCH V: INSTITUTIONAL RETROSPECTIVES & FUTURE LEGACY (2022–2026+)

Design Miami/LA, Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), and Global Gallery Off-Sites.

Jean Prouvé Oeuvre Exhibition (MOT Tokyo)

Co-Curating over 100 Masterworks of French Modernism

Large-scale museum retrospective co-curated and directed by Ritsuko Yagi alongside Tamotsu Yagi Design, Galerie Patrick Seguin, and MOT. Presented over 100 landmark architectural structures and furniture pieces from the private collections of Yusaku Maezawa, Patrick Seguin, Tamotsu Yagi, and the Prouvé family.

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART TOKYO (MOT), JAPAN | AUGUST–OCTOBER 16, 2022 | CO-DIRECTED BY RITSUKO YAGI x GALERIE PATRICK SEGUIN x YAGI DESIGN STUDIO

Tenshin Juba: High Fire #3 & Planet Wakusei (Design Miami/LA)

Celestial Sculptures at the Historic Goldwyn House

Curated by Ritsuko Yagi for the inaugural Design Miami/LA, presenting Tenshin Juba’s celestial Wakusei (Planet) sculptures and high wood-fired ash-glazed tea bowls inside the historic Goldwyn House estate.

LOS ANGELES, CA | MAY 2024 | DESIGN MIAMI/LA | GOLDWYN HOUSE | CURATED BY RITSUKO YAGI

Asuka Juba: Teapots & Rice-Husk Glazes

The U.S. Debut of Rice-Husk Ash Pottery

U.S. premiere of Asuka Juba's hand-thrown teapots and rice-husk ash glazes, high-fired in Kobe, Japan.

CHARIOTS ON FIRE PRESENTS | 2025 | ASUKA JUBA U.S. DEBUT

Twenty-Year Retrospective & Future Commissions

Two Decades of Provenance (2006–2026)

Celebrating 20 years of curation in Venice, CA, and preparing major upcoming international exhibition projects, publishing releases, and ceramic commissions with Makoto Kagoshima and Tenshin Juba.

GLOBAL ARCHIVE | 2026–2027 | CHARIOTS ON FIRE

# CHARIOTS ON FIRE: A RETROSPECTIVE MONOGRAPH (2006–2026)

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### PREFACE: THE CURATORIAL MANIFESTO

Chariots on Fire was never conceived as a traditional gallery space at 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney Boulevard. For two decades, it operated as a quiet cultural epicenter in Venice Beach—an instinctual bridge linking Los Angeles, San Francisco, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe.

Founded in 2006 by director Ritsuko Yagi, Chariots on Fire pioneered a philosophy centered on instinct, master craftsmanship, and raw material expression long before Japanese studio ceramics, botanical art, and raw-glazed stoneware entered the global design lexicon. Operating at the intersection of curation, commissioning, and publishing, Chariots on Fire has launched international careers, published definitive artist monographs through Chariots on Fire Press, and instigated historic cross-cultural dialogues. From hosting landmark U.S. debut exhibitions to co-curating major retrospective showcases at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Chariots on Fire remains a primary originator of modern design provenance.

---

### EPOCH I: RAW CLAY & DESERT FLORA (2006–2014)

The L.A. & Kyoto Encounters: Adam Silverman, Kohei Oda, and the U.S. Debut of Makoto Kagoshima.

---

The Foundation of Chariots on Fire‍ ‍

Establishing an Independent Sanctuary on Abbot Kinney‍ ‍

Founded as a physical sanctuary in Venice Beach, CA, dedicated to rare objects, fine jewelry, and uncompromised master craft. From its inception, the space prioritized tactile material honesty over mass production.

`VENICE, CA | EST. 2006 | CURATED BY RITSUKO YAGI`

---

The Tokyo Discovery: Makoto Kagoshima‍ ‍

A Single Plate and an Instant Kinship‍ ‍

Director Ritsuko Yagi discovers the work of Fukuoka-based artist Makoto Kagoshima in Tokyo—a single ceramic plate etched with an earth-toned flower. An instantaneous creative kinship leads Yagi to invite Kagoshima to present his one-of-a-kind works in the United States for the very first time.

`TOKYO, JAPAN | 2010 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x RITSUKO YAGI`

---

Makoto Kagoshima: U.S. Debut Exhibition‍ ‍

Introducing One-of-a-Kind Sgraffito Earthenware to North America‍ ‍

The historic first solo exhibition of Makoto Kagoshima in America, presented exclusively at Chariots on Fire on Abbot Kinney. The show introduced Kagoshima's hand-carved, one-of-a-kind sgraffito linework, botanical motifs, and whimsical fauna to Western collectors, laying the groundwork for a decade of collaboration.

`VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2013 | CHARIOTS ON FIRE`

---

Adam Silverman Monograph (Rizzoli)‍ ‍

Bridging Ceramic Form and Editorial Art Direction‍ ‍

A landmark publishing collaboration directed and designed by Tamotsu Yagi Design alongside Ritsuko Yagi, establishing the formal aesthetic dialogue between studio pottery and published print works.

`LOS ANGELES, CA | SEPTEMBER 2013 | TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN x RIZZOLI`

---

A Tale of Plant & Pot‍ ‍

The L.A. & Kyoto Debut of Grafted Desert Flora & Lava-Glazed Ceramics‍ ‍

Commissioned and produced by Chariots on Fire, this historic exhibition paired L.A. ceramicist Adam Silverman with Hiroshima botanical artist Kohei Oda (Qusamura) for Oda’s U.S. debut. Silverman threw experimental, multi-fired lava-glazed vessels specifically tailored to house Oda’s rare, "ugly-beautiful" grafted cacti, launching a global desert-flora ceramic movement.

> "Mutant cacti in pots with unconventional, often imperfect, glazes. Sounds strange? Strangely beautiful is more like it."The New York Times T Magazine

`VENICE, CA & KYOTO, JAPAN | MAY 2014 | ADAM SILVERMAN x KOHEI ODA | TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN`

---

Makoto Kagoshima: "Ode to Summer" & The Joshua Tree Expedition‍ ‍

California Light Infused into Japanese Clay‍ ‍

Solo exhibition created in direct response to the coastal climate of Venice Beach. Following the exhibition, Kagoshima accompanied Yagi on a spontaneous journey to Joshua Tree, an experience that directly infused desert flora, cacti, and California light into his ongoing ceramic narratives.

> “What I create for Chariots embodies Los Angeles.”Makoto Kagoshima

`VENICE & JOSHUA TREE, CA | JULY 2014 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA`

---

Makoto Kagoshima: Ceramics & Live Wall Mural‍ ‍

Immersive Live Painting on Abbot Kinney‍ ‍

Second solo exhibition featuring unique, one-of-a-kind earthenware works and a live, hand-drawn gallery wall mural completed on-site over the course of the exhibition in Venice.

`VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2014 | LIVE GALLERY INSTALLATION`

---

### EPOCH II: PUBLISHING, TEXTILES & MONOGRAPHS (2015–2017)

Chariots on Fire Press, August Editions, Tamotsu Yagi Design, and International Bookmaking.

---

dosa x Makoto Kagoshima (S/S 2015 Collection)‍ ‍

Block-Printed Textiles and Wearable Art‍ ‍

Cross-disciplinary fashion happening featuring block-print textiles created by Makoto Kagoshima and Kei Maeda for Christina Kim's dosa Spring/Summer 2015 line.

`LOS ANGELES, CA | JUNE 2015 | DOSA x MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x KEI MAEDA`

---

Monograph Release: "Grafted" (August Editions)‍ ‍

Documenting the Plant & Pot Movement in Print‍ ‍

Publication of Grafted, the definitive monograph documenting Chariots on Fire’s production A Tale of Plant & Pot. Captures the complete collaboration between Adam Silverman (pots) and Kohei Oda / Qusamura (graft cacti).

`NEW YORK, NY | JUNE 2015 | PUBLISHER: AUGUST EDITIONS (DUNG NGO) | ESSAY: GLENN ADAMSON | PHOTO: JOSHUA WHITE & SHUJI YOSHIDA | DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN`

---

Makoto Kagoshima x Takahashi Yoshiko (S/S/A/W) I & II‍ ‍

Ceramics Paired with Botanical Culinary Delicacies‍ ‍

Interdisciplinary solo exhibitions in 2015 and 2016 pairing Kagoshima’s hand-carved, one-of-a-kind works with curated botanical food art and custom culinary delicacies prepared by Tokyo chef Takahashi Yoshiko.

`VENICE, CA | JULY 2015 & JULY 2016 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x TAKAHASHI YOSHIKO`

---

Tenshin Juba: Solo Slipware Ceramics (U.S. Debut Exhibition)‍ ‍

Introducing Liquid-Clay Techniques to North America‍ ‍

Exclusive U.S. debut exhibition of Kobe alchemist-potter Tenshin Juba at Chariots on Fire. Introduced his foundational slipware collection and organic liquid-clay surface techniques to North American collectors, establishing his presence before his later expansion into high wood-fired stoneware.

`VENICE, CA | OCTOBER 7–13, 2016 | TENSHIN JUBA U.S. DEBUT`

---

Chariots on Fire Press No. 1: "Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics"‍ ‍

Documenting Five Years of Venice Commissions‍ ‍

Publication of the landmark 140-page monograph documenting over 100 commissioned, one-of-a-kind works created for Chariots on Fire over a prolific five-year period. Printed in Japan by Takeo Paper using Kaleido ink.

`LOS ANGELES & TOKYO | JANUARY 2017 | ART DIRECTION: RITSUKO YAGI | FOREWORD: RYUKO KIDA | PHOTO: SHUJI YOSHIDA`

---

Tokyo Monograph Launch at Morioka Shoten‍ ‍

A Single Room with a Single Book‍ ‍

International launch of Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics at Ginza's renowned Morioka Shoten gallery, celebrating the global reach of the Venice-born publication.

`GINZA, TOKYO | FEBRUARY 2017 | MORIOKA SHOTEN`

---

Makoto Kagoshima: "Makomons"‍ ‍

Edible Confectionery and Earthenware‍ ‍

Solo exhibition presenting unique one-of-a-kind ceramic works alongside custom, hand-crafted confectionery delicacies by Fukuoka confectioner Tsumons.

`VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2017 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x TSUMONS`

---

Tenshin Juba: Slipware Ceramics‍ ‍

Liquid Clay and Traditional Firing Methods‍ ‍

Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba's evolving liquid-clay slipware techniques and traditional firing practices.

`VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2017 | TENSHIN JUBA`

---

### EPOCH III: SPATIAL SCALE, LIGHTING & TEXTILES (2018–2021)

Tenshin Juba's Kiln Practice, Architectural Lighting, and Spatial Fabrics.

---

Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics 2018‍ ‍

Annual Showcase of Sgraffito Masterworks‍ ‍

Annual solo showcase featuring rare, one-of-a-kind sgraffito platters, vessels, and custom art pieces executed with Kagoshima's signature fluid hand.

`VENICE, CA | SEPTEMBER 2018 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA`

---

Tenshin Juba: Outdoor Clippings & Porcelain Lighting‍ ‍

Expanding Ceramics into Architectural Space‍ ‍

Expansion of Tenshin Juba’s practice into spatial design, presenting large-scale outdoor ceramic sculptures and translucent porcelain pendant lighting fixtures.

`VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2018 | TENSHIN JUBA`

---

Makoto Kagoshima x Charlotte Perriand Dialogue‍ ‍

Staging Clay Within Modernist Architecture‍ ‍

Curated solo exhibition staging Kagoshima’s organic, one-of-a-kind ceramics within historic mid-century spatial contexts, echoing the material philosophies of French architect Charlotte Perriand.

`VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2019 | SPATIAL CURATION BY CHARIOTS ON FIRE`

---

Tenshin Juba: Cobalt Edition‍ ‍

Deep Mineral Glazes & Tea Ceremony Wares‍ ‍

Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba’s deep mineral cobalt glazes across tea ceremony wares, celebration bowls, and organic vessels.

`VENICE, CA | DECEMBER 2019 | TENSHIN JUBA`

---

Brooke Gregson: Raw Gemstone Series‍ ‍

Fine Jewelry Crafted in 18k Gold and Raw Tourmalines‍ ‍

Fine jewelry exhibition showcasing custom hand-engraved works, raw Halo Tourmalines, and boulder opals.

`VENICE, CA | FALL 2020 | BROOKE GREGSON`

---

Makoto Kagoshima: "Lovers"‍ ‍

Paired Motifs of Flora and Fauna‍ ‍

Solo exhibition centered on paired whimsical motifs—birds, flowers, and animated land creatures across dark and light one-of-a-kind clay bodies.

`VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2020 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA`

---

Makoto Kagoshima x Chariots on Fire for Christopher Farr Cloth‍ ‍

Translating Ceramic Sgraffito into Floor Coverings‍ ‍

Curation and release of hand-woven rugs and interior textiles translating Makoto Kagoshima’s fluid linework into spatial fabrics distributed worldwide.

`GLOBAL RELEASE | FALL 2021 | CURATED BY CHARIOTS ON FIRE`

---

Makoto Kagoshima Offsite 2021‍ ‍

Archival Works & Monograph Showcase‍ ‍

Offsite exhibition showcasing major unique, one-of-a-kind ceramic works alongside signed copies of the Chariots on Fire Press monograph.

`VENICE, CA | OCTOBER 2021 | OFFSITE EXHIBITION`

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Chariots on Fire Holiday Market‍ ‍

A Multi-Disciplinary Venice Gathering‍ ‍

Site-specific showcase featuring Tenshin Juba vessels paired with floral installations by Krystal Chang, antique Japanese objet d'art, fine jewelry, and textiles by Gregory Parkinson.

`VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER–DECEMBER 2021 | MULTI-ARTIST INSTALLATION`

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Tenshin Juba: "Bi-Metallic High-Fire"‍ ‍

Raw Metallic Glazes and Vitrified Stoneware‍ ‍

Solo exhibition presenting new high-fire stoneware showcasing raw metallic glazes and vitrified surfaces straight from the Kobe kiln.

`VENICE, CA | DECEMBER 8–14, 2021 | TENSHIN JUBA`

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### EPOCH IV: SALONS, FOOD & LIVING CULTURE (2022–2023)

Kyoto kōjin, Eye Eat, Tea Ceremonies, and Dover Street Market Ginza Releases.

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Chariots on Fire Press No. 2: "Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé"‍ ‍

A Monograph on the Collection of Tamotsu Yagi‍ ‍

Japan book launch for Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé, A Collection of Tamotsu Yagi. Published by Chariots on Fire Press and distributed via Post Books / Dover Street Market.

`DOVER STREET MARKET GINZA, TOKYO | APRIL 8, 2022 | GALERIE PATRICK SEGUIN x JOUSSE ENTREPRISE x LAFFANOUR GALERIE DOWNTOWN | DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN`

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Eye Eat Food Culture & Design Exhibition & Salon Market‍ ‍

Bridging Tableware, Food Art, and Spatial Curation‍ ‍

An exhibition exploring food culture and its relationship with art/design. Curated and art-directed by gallery director Ritsuko Yagi alongside project manager Junco Ida, delivering fine drinks, sweets, and beautiful tabletop objects tailored to the Eye Eat concept.

> キュレーターを務めるのは、ロサンゼルスを拠点に活躍するギャラリストでもあり、「Eye Eat」展のアートディレクターも務める八木理都子。「Eye Eat」展のコンセプトに合わせて、美味しいドリンクやお菓子、テーブル周りを彩る美しい小物をお届けします。プロジェクトマネジメント・井田順子とでお届けします。

`KŌJIN, KYOTO, JAPAN | AUGUST 4 – OCTOBER 9, 2022 (SALON: OCT 6–9) | ORGANIZERS: KŌJIN KYOTO, MAIN INC. | ART DIRECTION: RITSUKO YAGI | CONCEPT & DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN | SALON: CHARIOTS ON FIRE + JUNCO IDA | COPYWRITER: MAYUKO YAMAGUCHI | PHOTO: SHUJI YOSHIDA`

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Chariots on Fire Press No. 3: "Gerry Beckley's America"‍ ‍

Launch and Talk Event at Dover Street Market Ginza‍ ‍

Official book release and talk event featuring musician/photographer Gerry Beckley and publisher/editor Ritsuko Yagi, presented with POST Books.

> "Moments of beauty in beautiful cities are photographed and designed beautifully. A magnificent photography book that could only have been put together by him who traveled the world over time with great eyes."Hiroshi Fujiwara

`DOVER STREET MARKET GINZA (BIBLIOTHECA), TOKYO | OCTOBER 18, 2022 | PUBLISHER: CHARIOTS ON FIRE PRESS | EDITOR: RITSUKO YAGI | ART DIRECTION & DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN`

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Tokyo Media Broadcast: InterFM "Lazy Sunday"‍ ‍

Radio Dialogue on Travel and Photography‍ ‍

Special live radio broadcast feature on George Cockle's Lazy Sunday on InterFM Tokyo, introducing Gerry Beckley's America to Japanese audiences.

`TOKYO, JAPAN | OCTOBER 18, 2022 | INTERFM BROADCAST`

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“Gerry Beckley's America” Exhibition at kōjin‍ ‍

Visual Postcards from the Road‍ ‍

Exhibition of travel photographs acting as modern visual postcards, capturing moments ranging from the abstract to the everyday across the globe.

> "I always enjoy getting a photograph from Gerry on his travels, the modern equivalent of a postcard, a picture with a message. His keen eye ranges freely from the very abstract to the very real and can find the special in the ordinary."Margaret Howell

`KŌJIN, KYOTO, JAPAN | OCTOBER 21–25, 2022 | GERRY BECKLEY x CHARIOTS ON FIRE`

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High Fire: Tenshin Juba Ceramics — Vessels for the Home & Tableware‍ ‍

A Chariots on Fire Takeover Staging High-Fire Clay Within Historic Interiors‍ ‍

In partnership with MIDCENTURYLA. Chariots on Fire transformed MidCenturyLA to celebrate alchemist potter Tenshin Juba’s high-fire vessels and tableware, marking a major evolution in his kiln practice. Selections presented were gleaned by Chariots on Fire directly from Tenshin Juba’s atelier in Kobe, Japan, and integrated into dialogue with MidCenturyLA’s home furnishings archive.

`NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA | OCTOBER 14–15, 2023 | IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MIDCENTURYLA | FLORAL INSTALLATIONS: LIESL FLORA`

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High Fire: Tenshin Juba Ceramics — Matcha Bowls & Tea Salon‍ ‍

An Intimate Gathering of Clay, Garments, and Matcha‍ ‍

In partnership with EVAN KINORI. Exhibition presenting the synergy of one-of-a-kind ceramics by Tenshin Juba paired with the world of Evan Kinori. Upstairs featured a transformation into a Matcha Tea Salon hosted by tea master Makiko Fujikawa (Urasenke Foundation SF) and Ritsuko Yagi (Chariots on Fire), offering tea served in handmade Matchawan with Kyoto higashi dry sweets. 100% of tea experience proceeds were donated to the Urasenke Foundation of San Francisco.

`SAN FRANCISCO, CA | NOVEMBER 4–5, 2023 | EVAN KINORI STUDIO | TEA MASTER: MAKIKO FUJIKAWA (URASENKE FOUNDATION)`

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### EPOCH V: INSTITUTIONAL RETROSPECTIVES & FUTURE LEGACY (2022–2026+)

Design Miami/LA, Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), and Global Gallery Off-Sites.

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Jean Prouvé Oeuvre Exhibition (MOT Tokyo)‍ ‍

Co-Curating over 100 Masterworks of French Modernism‍ ‍

Large-scale museum retrospective co-curated and directed by Ritsuko Yagi alongside Tamotsu Yagi Design, Galerie Patrick Seguin, and MOT. Presented over 100 landmark architectural structures and furniture pieces from the private collections of Yusaku Maezawa, Patrick Seguin, Tamotsu Yagi, and the Prouvé family.

`MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART TOKYO (MOT), JAPAN | AUGUST–OCTOBER 16, 2022 | CO-DIRECTED BY RITSUKO YAGI x GALERIE PATRICK SEGUIN x YAGI DESIGN STUDIO`

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Tenshin Juba: High Fire #3 & Planet Wakusei (Design Miami/LA)‍ ‍

Celestial Sculptures at the Historic Goldwyn House‍ ‍

Curated by Ritsuko Yagi for the inaugural Design Miami/LA, presenting Tenshin Juba’s celestial Wakusei (Planet) sculptures and high wood-fired ash-glazed tea bowls inside the historic Goldwyn House estate.

`LOS ANGELES, CA | MAY 2024 | DESIGN MIAMI/LA | GOLDWYN HOUSE | CURATED BY RITSUKO YAGI`

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Asuka Juba: Teapots & Rice-Husk Glazes‍ ‍

The U.S. Debut of Rice-Husk Ash Pottery‍ ‍

U.S. premiere of Asuka Juba's hand-thrown teapots and rice-husk ash glazes, high-fired in Kobe, Japan.

`CHARIOTS ON FIRE PRESENTS | 2025 | ASUKA JUBA U.S. DEBUT`

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Twenty-Year Retrospective & Future Commissions‍ ‍

Two Decades of Provenance (2006–2026)‍ ‍

Celebrating 20 years of curation in Venice, CA, and preparing major upcoming international exhibition projects, publishing releases, and ceramic commissions with Makoto Kagoshima and Tenshin Juba.

`GLOBAL ARCHIVE | 2026–2027 | CHARIOTS ON FIRE`

CHARIOTS ON FIRE: A RETROSPECTIVE MONOGRAPH (2006–2026)

PREFACE: THE CURATORIAL MANIFESTO

Chariots on Fire was never conceived as a traditional gallery space at 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney Boulevard. For two decades, it operated as a quiet cultural epicenter in Venice Beach—an instinctual bridge linking Los Angeles, San Francisco, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe.

Founded in 2006 by director Ritsuko Yagi, Chariots on Fire pioneered a philosophy centered on instinct, master craftsmanship, and raw material expression long before Japanese studio ceramics, botanical art, and raw-glazed stoneware entered the global design lexicon. Operating at the intersection of curation, commissioning, and publishing, Chariots on Fire has launched international careers, published definitive artist monographs through Chariots on Fire Press, and instigated historic cross-cultural dialogues. From hosting landmark U.S. debut exhibitions to co-curating major retrospective showcases at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Chariots on Fire remains a primary originator of modern design provenance.

EPOCH I: RAW CLAY & DESERT FLORA (2006–2014)

The L.A. & Kyoto Encounters: Adam Silverman, Kohei Oda, and the U.S. Debut of Makoto Kagoshima.

The Foundation of Chariots on Fire

Establishing an Independent Sanctuary on Abbot Kinney

Founded as a physical sanctuary in Venice Beach, CA, dedicated to rare objects, fine jewelry, and uncompromised master craft. From its inception, the space prioritized tactile material honesty over mass production.

VENICE, CA | EST. 2006 | CURATED BY RITSUKO YAGI

The Tokyo Discovery: Makoto Kagoshima

A Single Plate and an Instant Kinship

Director Ritsuko Yagi discovers the work of Fukuoka-based artist Makoto Kagoshima in Tokyo—a single ceramic plate etched with an earth-toned flower. An instantaneous creative kinship leads Yagi to invite Kagoshima to present his one-of-a-kind works in the United States for the very first time.

TOKYO, JAPAN | 2010 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x RITSUKO YAGI

Makoto Kagoshima: U.S. Debut Exhibition

Introducing One-of-a-Kind Sgraffito Earthenware to North America

The historic first solo exhibition of Makoto Kagoshima in America, presented exclusively at Chariots on Fire on Abbot Kinney. The show introduced Kagoshima's hand-carved, one-of-a-kind sgraffito linework, botanical motifs, and whimsical fauna to Western collectors, laying the groundwork for a decade of collaboration.

VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2013 | CHARIOTS ON FIRE

Adam Silverman Monograph (Rizzoli)

Bridging Ceramic Form and Editorial Art Direction

A landmark publishing collaboration directed and designed by Tamotsu Yagi Design alongside Ritsuko Yagi, establishing the formal aesthetic dialogue between studio pottery and published print works.

LOS ANGELES, CA | SEPTEMBER 2013 | TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN x RIZZOLI

A Tale of Plant & Pot

The L.A. & Kyoto Debut of Grafted Desert Flora & Lava-Glazed Ceramics

Commissioned and produced by Chariots on Fire, this historic exhibition paired L.A. ceramicist Adam Silverman with Hiroshima botanical artist Kohei Oda (Qusamura) for Oda’s U.S. debut. Silverman threw experimental, multi-fired lava-glazed vessels specifically tailored to house Oda’s rare, "ugly-beautiful" grafted cacti, launching a global desert-flora ceramic movement.

"Mutant cacti in pots with unconventional, often imperfect, glazes. Sounds strange? Strangely beautiful is more like it."The New York Times T Magazine

VENICE, CA & KYOTO, JAPAN | MAY 2014 | ADAM SILVERMAN x KOHEI ODA | TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN

Makoto Kagoshima: "Ode to Summer" & The Joshua Tree Expedition

California Light Infused into Japanese Clay

Solo exhibition created in direct response to the coastal climate of Venice Beach. Following the exhibition, Kagoshima accompanied Yagi on a spontaneous journey to Joshua Tree, an experience that directly infused desert flora, cacti, and California light into his ongoing ceramic narratives.

“What I create for Chariots embodies Los Angeles.”Makoto Kagoshima

VENICE & JOSHUA TREE, CA | JULY 2014 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA

Makoto Kagoshima: Ceramics & Live Wall Mural

Immersive Live Painting on Abbot Kinney

Second solo exhibition featuring unique, one-of-a-kind earthenware works and a live, hand-drawn gallery wall mural completed on-site over the course of the exhibition in Venice.

VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2014 | LIVE GALLERY INSTALLATION

EPOCH II: PUBLISHING, TEXTILES & MONOGRAPHS (2015–2017)

Chariots on Fire Press, August Editions, Tamotsu Yagi Design, and International Bookmaking.

dosa x Makoto Kagoshima (S/S 2015 Collection)

Block-Printed Textiles and Wearable Art

Cross-disciplinary fashion happening featuring block-print textiles created by Makoto Kagoshima and Kei Maeda for Christina Kim's dosa Spring/Summer 2015 line.

LOS ANGELES, CA | JUNE 2015 | DOSA x MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x KEI MAEDA

Monograph Release: "Grafted" (August Editions)

Documenting the Plant & Pot Movement in Print

Publication of Grafted, the definitive monograph documenting Chariots on Fire’s production A Tale of Plant & Pot. Captures the complete collaboration between Adam Silverman (pots) and Kohei Oda / Qusamura (graft cacti).

NEW YORK, NY | JUNE 2015 | PUBLISHER: AUGUST EDITIONS (DUNG NGO) | ESSAY: GLENN ADAMSON | PHOTO: JOSHUA WHITE & SHUJI YOSHIDA | DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN

Makoto Kagoshima x Takahashi Yoshiko (S/S/A/W) I & II

Ceramics Paired with Botanical Culinary Delicacies

Interdisciplinary solo exhibitions in 2015 and 2016 pairing Kagoshima’s hand-carved, one-of-a-kind works with curated botanical food art and custom culinary delicacies prepared by Tokyo chef Takahashi Yoshiko.

VENICE, CA | JULY 2015 & JULY 2016 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x TAKAHASHI YOSHIKO

Tenshin Juba: Solo Slipware Ceramics (U.S. Debut Exhibition)

Introducing Liquid-Clay Techniques to North America

Exclusive U.S. debut exhibition of Kobe alchemist-potter Tenshin Juba at Chariots on Fire. Introduced his foundational slipware collection and organic liquid-clay surface techniques to North American collectors, establishing his presence before his later expansion into high wood-fired stoneware.

VENICE, CA | OCTOBER 7–13, 2016 | TENSHIN JUBA U.S. DEBUT

Chariots on Fire Press No. 1: "Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics"

Documenting Five Years of Venice Commissions

Publication of the landmark 140-page monograph documenting over 100 commissioned, one-of-a-kind works created for Chariots on Fire over a prolific five-year period. Printed in Japan by Takeo Paper using Kaleido ink.

LOS ANGELES & TOKYO | JANUARY 2017 | ART DIRECTION: RITSUKO YAGI | FOREWORD: RYUKO KIDA | PHOTO: SHUJI YOSHIDA

Tokyo Monograph Launch at Morioka Shoten

A Single Room with a Single Book

International launch of Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics at Ginza's renowned Morioka Shoten gallery, celebrating the global reach of the Venice-born publication.

GINZA, TOKYO | FEBRUARY 2017 | MORIOKA SHOTEN

Makoto Kagoshima: "Makomons"

Edible Confectionery and Earthenware

Solo exhibition presenting unique one-of-a-kind ceramic works alongside custom, hand-crafted confectionery delicacies by Fukuoka confectioner Tsumons.

VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2017 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA x TSUMONS

Tenshin Juba: Slipware Ceramics

Liquid Clay and Traditional Firing Methods

Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba's evolving liquid-clay slipware techniques and traditional firing practices.

VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2017 | TENSHIN JUBA

EPOCH III: SPATIAL SCALE, LIGHTING & TEXTILES (2018–2021)

Tenshin Juba's Kiln Practice, Architectural Lighting, and Spatial Fabrics.

Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics 2018

Annual Showcase of Sgraffito Masterworks

Annual solo showcase featuring rare, one-of-a-kind sgraffito platters, vessels, and custom art pieces executed with Kagoshima's signature fluid hand.

VENICE, CA | SEPTEMBER 2018 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA

Tenshin Juba: Outdoor Clippings & Porcelain Lighting

Expanding Ceramics into Architectural Space

Expansion of Tenshin Juba’s practice into spatial design, presenting large-scale outdoor ceramic sculptures and translucent porcelain pendant lighting fixtures.

VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2018 | TENSHIN JUBA

Makoto Kagoshima x Charlotte Perriand Dialogue

Staging Clay Within Modernist Architecture

Curated solo exhibition staging Kagoshima’s organic, one-of-a-kind ceramics within historic mid-century spatial contexts, echoing the material philosophies of French architect Charlotte Perriand.

VENICE, CA | AUGUST 2019 | SPATIAL CURATION BY CHARIOTS ON FIRE

Tenshin Juba: Cobalt Edition

Deep Mineral Glazes & Tea Ceremony Wares

Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba’s deep mineral cobalt glazes across tea ceremony wares, celebration bowls, and organic vessels.

VENICE, CA | DECEMBER 2019 | TENSHIN JUBA

Brooke Gregson: Raw Gemstone Series

Fine Jewelry Crafted in 18k Gold and Raw Tourmalines

Fine jewelry exhibition showcasing custom hand-engraved works, raw Halo Tourmalines, and boulder opals.

VENICE, CA | FALL 2020 | BROOKE GREGSON

Makoto Kagoshima: "Lovers"

Paired Motifs of Flora and Fauna

Solo exhibition centered on paired whimsical motifs—birds, flowers, and animated land creatures across dark and light one-of-a-kind clay bodies.

VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER 2020 | MAKOTO KAGOSHIMA

Makoto Kagoshima x Chariots on Fire for Christopher Farr Cloth

Translating Ceramic Sgraffito into Floor Coverings

Curation and release of hand-woven rugs and interior textiles translating Makoto Kagoshima’s fluid linework into spatial fabrics distributed worldwide.

GLOBAL RELEASE | FALL 2021 | CURATED BY CHARIOTS ON FIRE

Makoto Kagoshima Offsite 2021

Archival Works & Monograph Showcase

Offsite exhibition showcasing major unique, one-of-a-kind ceramic works alongside signed copies of the Chariots on Fire Press monograph.

VENICE, CA | OCTOBER 2021 | OFFSITE EXHIBITION

Chariots on Fire Holiday Market

A Multi-Disciplinary Venice Gathering

Site-specific showcase featuring Tenshin Juba vessels paired with floral installations by Krystal Chang, antique Japanese objet d'art, fine jewelry, and textiles by Gregory Parkinson.

VENICE, CA | NOVEMBER–DECEMBER 2021 | MULTI-ARTIST INSTALLATION

Tenshin Juba: "Bi-Metallic High-Fire"

Raw Metallic Glazes and Vitrified Stoneware

Solo exhibition presenting new high-fire stoneware showcasing raw metallic glazes and vitrified surfaces straight from the Kobe kiln.

VENICE, CA | DECEMBER 8–14, 2021 | TENSHIN JUBA

EPOCH IV: SALONS, FOOD & LIVING CULTURE (2022–2023)

Kyoto kōjin, Eye Eat, Tea Ceremonies, and Dover Street Market Ginza Releases.

Chariots on Fire Press No. 2: "Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé"

A Monograph on the Collection of Tamotsu Yagi

Japan book launch for Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé, A Collection of Tamotsu Yagi. Published by Chariots on Fire Press and distributed via Post Books / Dover Street Market.

DOVER STREET MARKET GINZA, TOKYO | APRIL 8, 2022 | GALERIE PATRICK SEGUIN x JOUSSE ENTREPRISE x LAFFANOUR GALERIE DOWNTOWN | DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN

Eye Eat Food Culture & Design Exhibition & Salon Market

Bridging Tableware, Food Art, and Spatial Curation

An exhibition exploring food culture and its relationship with art/design. Curated and art-directed by gallery director Ritsuko Yagi alongside project manager Junco Ida, delivering fine drinks, sweets, and beautiful tabletop objects tailored to the Eye Eat concept.

キュレーターを務めるのは、ロサンゼルスを拠点に活躍するギャラリストでもあり、「Eye Eat」展のアートディレクターも務める八木理都子。「Eye Eat」展のコンセプトに合わせて、美味しいドリンクやお菓子、テーブル周りを彩る美しい小物をお届けします。プロジェクトマネジメント・井田順子とでお届けします。

KŌJIN, KYOTO, JAPAN | AUGUST 4 – OCTOBER 9, 2022 (SALON: OCT 6–9) | ORGANIZERS: KŌJIN KYOTO, MAIN INC. | ART DIRECTION: RITSUKO YAGI | CONCEPT & DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN | SALON: CHARIOTS ON FIRE + JUNCO IDA | COPYWRITER: MAYUKO YAMAGUCHI | PHOTO: SHUJI YOSHIDA

Chariots on Fire Press No. 3: "Gerry Beckley's America"

Launch and Talk Event at Dover Street Market Ginza

Official book release and talk event featuring musician/photographer Gerry Beckley and publisher/editor Ritsuko Yagi, presented with POST Books.

"Moments of beauty in beautiful cities are photographed and designed beautifully. A magnificent photography book that could only have been put together by him who traveled the world over time with great eyes."Hiroshi Fujiwara

DOVER STREET MARKET GINZA (BIBLIOTHECA), TOKYO | OCTOBER 18, 2022 | PUBLISHER: CHARIOTS ON FIRE PRESS | EDITOR: RITSUKO YAGI | ART DIRECTION & DESIGN: TAMOTSU YAGI DESIGN

Tokyo Media Broadcast: InterFM "Lazy Sunday"

Radio Dialogue on Travel and Photography

Special live radio broadcast feature on George Cockle's Lazy Sunday on InterFM Tokyo, introducing Gerry Beckley's America to Japanese audiences.

TOKYO, JAPAN | OCTOBER 18, 2022 | INTERFM BROADCAST

“Gerry Beckley's America” Exhibition at kōjin

Visual Postcards from the Road

Exhibition of travel photographs acting as modern visual postcards, capturing moments ranging from the abstract to the everyday across the globe.

"I always enjoy getting a photograph from Gerry on his travels, the modern equivalent of a postcard, a picture with a message. His keen eye ranges freely from the very abstract to the very real and can find the special in the ordinary."Margaret Howell

KŌJIN, KYOTO, JAPAN | OCTOBER 21–25, 2022 | GERRY BECKLEY x CHARIOTS ON FIRE

High Fire: Tenshin Juba Ceramics — Vessels for the Home & Tableware

A Chariots on Fire Takeover Staging High-Fire Clay Within Historic Interiors

In partnership with MIDCENTURYLA. Chariots on Fire transformed MidCenturyLA to celebrate alchemist potter Tenshin Juba’s high-fire vessels and tableware, marking a major evolution in his kiln practice. Selections presented were gleaned by Chariots on Fire directly from Tenshin Juba’s atelier in Kobe, Japan, and integrated into dialogue with MidCenturyLA’s home furnishings archive.

NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA | OCTOBER 14–15, 2023 | IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MIDCENTURYLA | FLORAL INSTALLATIONS: LIESL FLORA

High Fire: Tenshin Juba Ceramics — Matcha Bowls & Tea Salon

An Intimate Gathering of Clay, Garments, and Matcha

In partnership with EVAN KINORI. Exhibition presenting the synergy of one-of-a-kind ceramics by Tenshin Juba paired with the world of Evan Kinori. Upstairs featured a transformation into a Matcha Tea Salon hosted by tea master Makiko Fujikawa (Urasenke Foundation SF) and Ritsuko Yagi (Chariots on Fire), offering tea served in handmade Matchawan with Kyoto higashi dry sweets. 100% of tea experience proceeds were donated to the Urasenke Foundation of San Francisco.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA | NOVEMBER 4–5, 2023 | EVAN KINORI STUDIO | TEA MASTER: MAKIKO FUJIKAWA (URASENKE FOUNDATION)

EPOCH V: INSTITUTIONAL RETROSPECTIVES & FUTURE LEGACY (2022–2026+)

Design Miami/LA, Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), and Global Gallery Off-Sites.

Jean Prouvé Oeuvre Exhibition (MOT Tokyo)

Co-Curating over 100 Masterworks of French Modernism

Large-scale museum retrospective co-curated and directed by Ritsuko Yagi alongside Tamotsu Yagi Design, Galerie Patrick Seguin, and MOT. Presented over 100 landmark architectural structures and furniture pieces from the private collections of Yusaku Maezawa, Patrick Seguin, Tamotsu Yagi, and the Prouvé family.

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART TOKYO (MOT), JAPAN | AUGUST–OCTOBER 16, 2022 | CO-DIRECTED BY RITSUKO YAGI x GALERIE PATRICK SEGUIN x YAGI DESIGN STUDIO

Tenshin Juba: High Fire #3 & Planet Wakusei (Design Miami/LA)

Celestial Sculptures at the Historic Goldwyn House

Curated by Ritsuko Yagi for the inaugural Design Miami/LA, presenting Tenshin Juba’s celestial Wakusei (Planet) sculptures and high wood-fired ash-glazed tea bowls inside the historic Goldwyn House estate.

LOS ANGELES, CA | MAY 2024 | DESIGN MIAMI/LA | GOLDWYN HOUSE | CURATED BY RITSUKO YAGI

Asuka Juba: Teapots & Rice-Husk Glazes

The U.S. Debut of Rice-Husk Ash Pottery

U.S. premiere of Asuka Juba's hand-thrown teapots and rice-husk ash glazes, high-fired in Kobe, Japan.

CHARIOTS ON FIRE PRESENTS | 2025 | ASUKA JUBA U.S. DEBUT

Twenty-Year Retrospective & Future Commissions

Two Decades of Provenance (2006–2026)

Celebrating 20 years of curation in Venice, CA, and preparing major upcoming international exhibition projects, publishing releases, and ceramic commissions with Makoto Kagoshima and Tenshin Juba.

GLOBAL ARCHIVE | 2026–2027 | CHARIOTS ON FIRE

CHARIOTS ON FIRE: CULTURAL & EXHIBITION ARCHIVE (2006–2026)

PART I: THE CURATORIAL PROVENANCE ARCHIVE

Two Decades of Curation on Abbot Kinney (2006–2026)

Chariots on Fire was never simply a physical gallery space at 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney Boulevard. For two decades, it operated as a quiet cultural epicenter in Venice Beach—a bi-coastal bridge linking Los Angeles, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe.

Founded in 2006 by director Ritsuko Yagi, Chariots on Fire pioneered a philosophy centered on instinct, master craftsmanship, and raw material expression long before Japanese studio ceramics, botanical art, and raw-glazed stoneware entered the global design lexicon.

Operating at the intersection of curation, commissioning, and publishing, Chariots on Fire has continuously launched international careers, published definitive artist monographs through Chariots on Fire Press, and instigated historic cross-cultural dialogues. From hosting landmark U.S. debut exhibitions to co-curating major retrospective showcases at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Chariots on Fire remains a primary originator of modern design provenance.

PART II: THE MASTER CHRONOLOGICAL ARCHIVE

FOUNDATIONAL YEARS & DISCOVERY (2006–2012)

  • 2006 | Establishment of Chariots on Fire

    Location: Venice, California

    Provenance: Founded by Ritsuko Yagi as an independent gallery and design sanctuary dedicated to rare objects, fine jewelry, and master craft.

  • 2010 | The Tokyo Discovery: Makoto Kagoshima

    Location: Tokyo, Japan

    Provenance: Gallery director Ritsuko Yagi discovers the work of Fukuoka-based artist Makoto Kagoshima—a single ceramic plate etched with an earth-toned flower. An instantaneous creative kinship leads Yagi to extend an invitation for Kagoshima to present his work in the United States for the very first time.

EARLY EXHIBITION MILESTONES (2013–2014)

  • August 2013 | Makoto Kagoshima: U.S. Debut Exhibition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: The historic first solo exhibition of Makoto Kagoshima in America. Sponsored by Mid Century LA, introducing his signature sgraffito linework, botanical motifs, and whimsical fauna to Western collectors.

  • September 2013 | Adam Silverman Monograph (Rizzoli)

    Context: Monograph collaboration directed and designed by Tamotsu Yagi Design with Ritsuko Yagi, establishing the formal design lineage between raw ceramics and publication art direction.

  • May 2014 | A Tale of Plant & Pot (L.A. & Kyoto Debut)

    Location: Venice Beach, CA & Kyoto, Japan

    Context: Commissioned and produced by Chariots on Fire. Matched L.A. ceramicist Adam Silverman with Hiroshima botanical artist Kohei Oda (Qusamura) for Oda’s U.S. debut. Silverman threw experimental, multi-fired lava-glazed vessels specifically tailored to Oda’s rare, "ugly-beautiful" grafted cacti, launching a global desert-flora ceramic trend.

    Press & Monograph: Featured in NYT T Magazine, W Magazine, Wallpaper*, and Sight Unseen. Produced the publication Grafted: Plants by Kohei Oda & Pots by Adam Silverman with visual direction by Tamotsu Yagi Design. Instant sellout in Venice and Kyoto.

  • July 2014 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Ode to Summer" & Joshua Tree Expedition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA & Joshua Tree, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition created in direct response to the coastal climate of Venice Beach. Following the show, Kagoshima accompanied Yagi on a spontaneous journey to Joshua Tree, an experience that directly infused desert flora, cacti, and California light into his ongoing ceramic narratives (“What I create for Chariots embodies Los Angeles”).

  • August 2014 | Makoto Kagoshima: Ceramics & Gallery Wall Mural

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Second solo exhibition featuring unique earthenware works and a live, hand-drawn gallery wall mural completed on-site in Venice.

PUBLISHING, TEXTILES & U.S. DEBUTS (2015–2017)

  • June 2015 | dosa x Makoto Kagoshima (S/S 2015 Collection)

    Location: Los Angeles, CA

    Context: Cross-disciplinary fashion happening featuring block-print textiles created by Makoto Kagoshima and Kei Maeda for the dosa Spring/Summer 2015 line.

  • June 2015 | Monograph Release: "Grafted" (August Editions)

    Location: New York, NY

    Context: Publication of Grafted, the definitive monograph documenting Chariots on Fire’s production A Tale of Plant & Pot. Features the historic collaboration between Adam Silverman (pots) and Kohei Oda / Qusamura (graft cacti).

    Publisher: August Editions (Dung Ngo)

    Essay: Glenn Adamson

    Photography: Joshua White (Los Angeles), Shuji Yoshida (Kyoto)

    Design: Tamotsu Yagi Design

  • July 2015 | Makoto Kagoshima x Takahashi Yoshiko (S/S/A/W)

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Interdisciplinary solo exhibition pairing Kagoshima’s hand-carved vessels with curated botanical food art and custom food delicacies by Tokyo chef Takahashi Yoshiko.

  • July 2016 | Makoto Kagoshima x Takahashi Yoshiko (S/S/A/W) II

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Second iteration of the culinary and ceramic showcase.

  • October 7–13, 2016 | Tenshin Juba: Solo Ceramics (U.S. Debut Exhibition)

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Exclusive U.S. debut exhibition of Kobe alchemist-potter Tenshin Juba. Introduced high wood-fired stoneware vessels created in his hand-built hillside kiln in the Rokkō mountains to North American collectors.

  • January 2017 | Chariots on Fire Press No. 1: "Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics"

    Location: Los Angeles & Tokyo

    Context: Publication of the landmark 140-page monograph documenting over 100 commissioned works created for Chariots on Fire over a prolific five-year period. Printed in Japan by Takeo Paper using Kaleido ink.

    Art Direction: Ritsuko Yagi

    Foreword: Ryuko Kida (Editor-in-Chief, Elle Decor Japan)

    Photography: Shuji Yoshida

  • February 2017 | Tokyo Monograph Launch at Morioka Shoten

    Location: Ginza, Tokyo, Japan

    Context: International launch of Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics at Morioka Shoten ("A Single Room with a Single Book"), celebrating the global reach of the Venice-born publication.

  • August 2017 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Makomons"

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition presenting ceramic works alongside custom, hand-crafted confectionery delicacies by Fukuoka confectioner Tsumons.

  • November 2017 | Tenshin Juba: Slipware Ceramics

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba's organic liquid-clay slipware techniques and traditional wood-firing methods.

INSTITUTIONAL SCALE, LIGHTING & TEXTILES (2018–2021)

  • September 2018 | Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics 2018

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Annual solo showcase featuring rare sgraffito platters, vessels, and custom table pieces.

  • November 2018 | Tenshin Juba: Outdoor Clippings & Porcelain Lighting

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Expansion of Tenshin Juba’s practice into architectural space, presenting large-scale outdoor ceramic sculptures and translucent porcelain pendant lighting fixtures.

  • August 2019 | Makoto Kagoshima x Charlotte Perriand Dialogue

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Curated solo exhibition staging Kagoshima’s organic ceramics within historic mid-century spatial contexts, echoing the material philosophies of Charlotte Perriand.

  • December 2019 | Tenshin Juba: Cobalt Edition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba’s deep mineral cobalt glazes across tea ceremony wares, celebration bowls, and organic vessels.

  • Fall 2020 | Brooke Gregson: Raw Gemstone Series

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Fine jewelry exhibition showcasing custom 14k/18k gold hand-engraved works, raw Halo Tourmalines, and boulder opals.

  • November 2020 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Lovers"

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition centered on paired whimsical motifs—birds, flowers, and animated land creatures.

  • Fall 2021 | Makoto Kagoshima x Chariots on Fire for Christopher Farr Cloth

    Location: Global / Christopher Farr Cloth

    Context: Curation and release of hand-woven rugs and interior textiles translating Makoto Kagoshima’s fluid linework into spatial fabrics.

  • October 2021 | Makoto Kagoshima Offsite 2021

    Location: Venice, CA

    Context: Offsite exhibition showcasing major unique ceramic works alongside signed copies of the Chariots on Fire Press monograph.

  • November–December 2021 | Chariots on Fire Holiday Market

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Site-specific showcase featuring Tenshin Juba vessels paired with floral installations by Krystal Chang, antique Japanese objet d'art, fine jewelry, and textiles by Gregory Parkinson.

  • December 8–14, 2021 | Tenshin Juba: "Bi-Metallic High-Fire"

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition presenting new high-fire stoneware showcasing raw metallic glazes and vitrified surfaces.

GLOBAL MUSEUMS, KYOTO SALONS & OFF-SITE COLLABORATIONS (2022–2026+)

  • April 8, 2022 | Chariots on Fire Press No. 2: "Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé" Book Launch

    Location: Dover Street Market Ginza, Tokyo, Japan

    Context: Japan book launch for Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé, A Collection of Tamotsu Yagi. Published by Chariots on Fire Press and distributed via Post Books / Dover Street Market.

    Collaborators: Galerie Patrick Seguin, Jousse Entreprise, Laffanour Galerie Downtown/Paris

    Design: Tamotsu Yagi Design

  • August 4 – October 9, 2022 | Eye Eat Food Culture & Design Exhibition & Salon Market

    (Exhibition Salon: October 6–9, 2022)

    Location: kōjin, Kyoto, Japan

    Context: An exhibition on food culture and its relationship with art/design. Curated and art-directed by gallery director Ritsuko Yagi alongside project manager Junco Ida, delivering fine drinks, sweets, and beautiful tabletop objects tailored to the Eye Eat concept.

    Organizers: Kōjin Kyoto, Main Inc.

    Concept / Design: Tamotsu Yagi Design

    Art Direction: Ritsuko Yagi

    Salon: Chariots on Fire + Junco Ida

    Copywriter: Mayuko Yamaguchi | Photography: Shuji Yoshida

    キュレーターを務めるのは、ロサンゼルスを拠点に活躍するギャラリストでもあり、「Eye Eat」展のアートディレクターも務める八木理都子。「Eye Eat」展のコンセプトに合わせて、美味しいドリンクやお菓子、テーブル周りを彩る美しい小物をお届けします。プロジェクトマネジメント・井田順子とでお届けします。

  • August–October 16, 2022 | Jean Prouvé Oeuvre Exhibition (MOT Tokyo) “The Jean Prouvé: Constructive Imagination exhibition”

    Location: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Japan

    Context: Large-scale retrospective co-curated/directed by Ritsuko Yagi alongside Tamotsu Yagi Design, Galerie Patrick Seguin, and MOT. Presented over 100 landmark architectural structures and furniture pieces from the private collections of Yusaku Maezawa, Patrick Seguin, Tamotsu Yagi, and the Prouvé family.

  • October 18, 2022 | Chariots on Fire Press No. 3: "Gerry Beckley's America" Book Launch

    Location: Dover Street Market Ginza (BIBLIOTHECA), Tokyo, Japan

    Context: Official book release and talk event with musician/photographer Gerry Beckley and publisher/editor Ritsuko Yagi, presented with POST Books.

    Book Art Direction & Design: Tamotsu Yagi Design

    Citation:

    "Moments of beauty in beautiful cities are photographed and designed beautifully. A magnificent photography book that could only have been put together by him who traveled the world over time with great eyes."Hiroshi Fujiwara

  • October 18, 2022 | Tokyo Media Broadcast (InterFM)

    Location: Tokyo, Japan

    Context: Special live radio broadcast feature on George Cockle's Lazy Sunday on InterFM Tokyo, introducing Gerry Beckley's America to Japanese audiences.

  • October 21–25, 2022 | “Gerry Beckley's America” Photography Exhibition at kōjin

    Location: kōjin, Kyoto, Japan

    Context: Exhibition of travel photographs acting as modern visual postcards, capturing moments ranging from the abstract to the everyday across the globe.

    Citation:

    "I always enjoy getting a photograph from Gerry on his travels, the modern equivalent of a postcard, a picture with a message. His keen eye ranges freely from the very abstract to the very real and can find the special in the ordinary."Margaret Howell

  • October 14–15, 2023 | High Fire: Tenshin Juba Ceramics — Vessels for the Home & Tableware

    Location: MIDCENTURYLA, 5333 Cahuenga Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 91601

    Context: In partnership with MIDCENTURYLA. Chariots on Fire transformed MidCenturyLA to celebrate alchemist potter Tenshin Juba’s high-fire vessels and tableware. Selections presented were gleaned by Chariots on Fire directly from Tenshin Juba’s atelier in Kobe, Japan, and integrated into dialogue with MidCenturyLA’s historic home furnishings archive.

    Floral Installations: Liesl Flora

  • November 4–5, 2023 | High Fire: Tenshin Juba Ceramics — Matcha Bowls & Cups / Tea Experience

    Location: EVAN KINORI, 1367 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110

    Context: In partnership with EVAN KINORI. Exhibition presenting the synergy of one-of-a-kind ceramics by Tenshin Juba (gleaned by Chariots on Fire from his Kobe atelier) paired with the world of Evan Kinori. Upstairs featured a transformation into a Matcha Tea Salon hosted by tea master Makiko Fujikawa (Urasenke Foundation SF) and Ritsuko Yagi (Chariots on Fire), offering tea served in handmade Matchawan with Kyoto higashi dry sweets. 100% of tea experience proceeds were donated to the Urasenke Foundation of San Francisco.

  • May 2024 | Tenshin Juba: High Fire #3 & Planet Wakusei (Design Miami/LA)

    Location: Historic Goldwyn House, Los Angeles, CA

    Context: Curated by Ritsuko Yagi for the inaugural Design Miami/LA, presenting Tenshin Juba’s celestial Wakusei(Planet) sculptures and high wood-fired ash-glazed tea bowls.

  • 2025 | Asuka Juba: Teapots & Rice-Husk Glazes

    Location: Chariots on Fire Presents

    Context: U.S. premiere of Asuka Juba's hand-thrown teapots and rice-husk ash glazes, high-fired in Kobe, Japan.

  • 2026–2027 | Twenty-Year Retrospective & Future Commissions

    Context: Celebrating 20 years of curation in Venice, CA (2006–2026) and preparing future international exhibition projects and ceramic releases with Makoto Kagoshima and Tenshin Juba.


PART III: STEP-BY-STEP WEBSITE IMPLEMENTATION

Step 1: Update the Navigation Structure

In Squarespace (or your site builder), rename your secondary menu link from generic names to:

  • EXHIBITIONS & PROVENANCE (Linking directly to /chariotsonfirepresents or a newly designed /archive hub).

Step 2: Paste the Master Archive

Copy Part I (The Manifesto) and Part II (The Complete Chronological Archive) directly into the body section of the archive page. Organize the text with clear section headers (H2 for years, H3 for individual shows) so both visitors and search engines can scan it instantly.

Step 3: Embed Historical Photos

Under each exhibition listing, upload 2 to 4 high-resolution images of:

  1. Installation views inside 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney.

  2. Monograph covers (Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics, Grafted).

  3. Historic press clips (NYT T Magazine, Wallpaper*, W Magazine).

This setup converts your digital presence into a recognized cultural institution.

below earlier iterations

CHARIOTS ON FIRE: CULTURAL & EXHIBITION ARCHIVE (2006–2026)

PART I: THE CURATORIAL PROVENANCE archive

Two Decades of Curation on Abbot Kinney (2006–2026)

Chariots on Fire was never simply a physical gallery space at 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney Boulevard. For two decades, it operated as a quiet cultural epicenter in Venice Beach—a bi-coastal bridge linking Los Angeles, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe.

Founded in 2006 by director Ritsuko Yagi, Chariots on Fire pioneered a philosophy centered on instinct, master craftsmanship, and raw material expression long before Japanese studio ceramics, botanical art, and raw-glazed stoneware entered the global design lexicon.

Operating at the intersection of curation, commissioning, and publishing, Chariots on Fire has continuously launched international careers, published definitive artist monographs through Chariots on Fire Press, and instigated historic cross-cultural dialogues. From hosting landmark U.S. debut exhibitions to co-curating major retrospective showcases at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Chariots on Fire remains a primary originator of modern design provenance.

PART II: THE MASTER CHRONOLOGICAL ARCHIVE

FOUNDATIONAL YEARS & DISCOVERY (2006–2012)

  • 2006 | Establishment of Chariots on Fire

    Location: Venice, California

    Provenance: Founded by Ritsuko Yagi as an independent gallery and design sanctuary dedicated to rare objects, fine jewelry, and master craft.

  • 2010 | The Tokyo Discovery: Makoto Kagoshima

    Location: Tokyo, Japan

    Provenance: Gallery director Ritsuko Yagi discovers the work of Fukuoka-based artist Makoto Kagoshima—a single ceramic plate etched with an earth-toned flower. An instantaneous creative kinship leads Yagi to extend an invitation for Kagoshima to present his work in the United States for the very first time.

EARLY EXHIBITION MILESTONES (2013–2014)

  • August 2013 | Makoto Kagoshima: U.S. Debut Exhibition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: The historic first solo exhibition of Makoto Kagoshima in America. Sponsored by Mid Century LA, introducing his signature sgraffito linework, botanical motifs, and whimsical fauna to Western collectors.

  • September 2013 | Adam Silverman Monograph (Rizzoli)

    Context: Monograph collaboration directed and designed by Tamotsu Yagi Design with Ritsuko Yagi, establishing the formal design lineage between raw ceramics and publication art direction.

  • May 2014 | A Tale of Plant & Pot (L.A. & Kyoto Debut)

    Location: Venice Beach, CA & Kyoto, Japan

    Context: Commissioned and produced by Chariots on Fire. Matched L.A. ceramicist Adam Silverman with Hiroshima botanical artist Kohei Oda (Qusamura) for Oda’s U.S. debut. Silverman threw experimental, multi-fired lava-glazed vessels specifically tailored to Oda’s rare, "ugly-beautiful" grafted cacti, launching a global desert-flora ceramic trend.

    Press & Monograph: Featured in NYT T Magazine, W Magazine, Wallpaper*, and Sight Unseen. Produced the publication Grafted: Plants by Kohei Oda & Pots by Adam Silverman with visual direction by Tamotsu Yagi Design. Instant sellout in Venice and Kyoto.

  • July 2014 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Ode to Summer" & Joshua Tree Expedition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA & Joshua Tree, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition created in direct response to the coastal climate of Venice Beach. Following the show, Kagoshima accompanied Yagi on a spontaneous journey to Joshua Tree, an experience that directly infused desert flora, cacti, and California light into his ongoing ceramic narratives (“What I create for Chariots embodies Los Angeles”).

  • August 2014 | Makoto Kagoshima: Ceramics & Gallery Wall Mural

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Second solo exhibition featuring unique earthenware works and a live, hand-drawn gallery wall mural completed on-site in Venice.

PUBLISHING, TEXTILES & U.S. DEBUTS (2015–2017)

  • June 2015 | dosa x Makoto Kagoshima (S/S 2015 Collection)

    Location: Los Angeles, CA

    Context: Cross-disciplinary fashion happening featuring block-print textiles created by Makoto Kagoshima and Kei Maeda for the dosa Spring/Summer 2015 line.

  • June 2015 | Monograph Release: "Grafted" (August Editions)

    Location: New York, NY

    Context: Publication of Grafted, the definitive monograph documenting Chariots on Fire’s production A Tale of Plant & Pot. Features the historic collaboration between Adam Silverman (pots) and Kohei Oda / Qusamura (graft cacti).

    Publisher: August Editions (Dung Ngo)

    Essay: Glenn Adamson

    Photography: Joshua White (Los Angeles), Shuji Yoshida (Kyoto)

    Design: Tamotsu Yagi Design

  • July 2015 | Makoto Kagoshima x Takahashi Yoshiko (S/S/A/W)

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Interdisciplinary solo exhibition pairing Kagoshima’s hand-carved vessels with curated botanical food art and custom food delicacies by Tokyo chef Takahashi Yoshiko.

  • July 2016 | Makoto Kagoshima x Takahashi Yoshiko (S/S/A/W) II

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Second iteration of the culinary and ceramic showcase.

  • October 7–13, 2016 | Tenshin Juba: Solo Ceramics (U.S. Debut Exhibition)

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Exclusive U.S. debut exhibition of Kobe alchemist-potter Tenshin Juba. Introduced high wood-fired stoneware vessels created in his hand-built hillside kiln in the Rokkō mountains to North American collectors.

  • January 2017 | Chariots on Fire Press No. 1: "Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics"

    Location: Los Angeles & Tokyo

    Context: Publication of the landmark 140-page monograph documenting over 100 commissioned works created for Chariots on Fire over a prolific five-year period. Printed in Japan by Takeo Paper using Kaleido ink.

    Art Direction: Ritsuko Yagi

    Foreword: Ryuko Kida (Editor-in-Chief, Elle Decor Japan)

    Photography: Shuji Yoshida

  • February 2017 | Tokyo Monograph Launch at Morioka Shoten

    Location: Ginza, Tokyo, Japan

    Context: International launch of Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics at Morioka Shoten ("A Single Room with a Single Book"), celebrating the global reach of the Venice-born publication.

  • August 2017 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Makomons"

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition presenting ceramic works alongside custom, hand-crafted confectionery delicacies by Fukuoka confectioner Tsumons.

  • November 2017 | Tenshin Juba: Slipware Ceramics

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba's organic liquid-clay slipware techniques and traditional wood-firing methods.

INSTITUTIONAL SCALE, LIGHTING & TEXTILES (2018–2021)

  • September 2018 | Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics 2018

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Annual solo showcase featuring rare sgraffito platters, vessels, and custom table pieces.

  • November 2018 | Tenshin Juba: Outdoor Clippings & Porcelain Lighting

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Expansion of Tenshin Juba’s practice into architectural space, presenting large-scale outdoor ceramic sculptures and translucent porcelain pendant lighting fixtures.

  • August 2019 | Makoto Kagoshima x Charlotte Perriand Dialogue

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Curated solo exhibition staging Kagoshima’s organic ceramics within historic mid-century spatial contexts, echoing the material philosophies of Charlotte Perriand.

  • December 2019 | Tenshin Juba: Cobalt Edition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba’s deep mineral cobalt glazes across tea ceremony wares, celebration bowls, and organic vessels.

  • Fall 2020 | Brooke Gregson: Raw Gemstone Series

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Fine jewelry exhibition showcasing custom 14k/18k gold hand-engraved works, raw Halo Tourmalines, and boulder opals.

  • November 2020 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Lovers"

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition centered on paired whimsical motifs—birds, flowers, and animated land creatures.

  • Fall 2021 | Makoto Kagoshima x Chariots on Fire for Christopher Farr Cloth

    Location: Global / Christopher Farr Cloth

    Context: Curation and release of hand-woven rugs and interior textiles translating Makoto Kagoshima’s fluid linework into spatial fabrics.

  • October 2021 | Makoto Kagoshima Offsite 2021

    Location: Venice, CA

    Context: Offsite exhibition showcasing major unique ceramic works alongside signed copies of the Chariots on Fire Press monograph.

  • November–December 2021 | Chariots on Fire Holiday Market

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Site-specific showcase featuring Tenshin Juba vessels paired with floral installations by Krystal Chang, antique Japanese objet d'art, fine jewelry, and textiles by Gregory Parkinson.

  • December 8–14, 2021 | Tenshin Juba: "Bi-Metallic High-Fire"

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition presenting new high-fire stoneware showcasing raw metallic glazes and vitrified surfaces.

GLOBAL MUSEUMS, KYOTO SALONS & PUBLISHING (2022–2026+)

  • April 8, 2022 | Chariots on Fire Press No. 2: "Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé" Book Launch

    Location: Dover Street Market Ginza, Tokyo, Japan

    Context: Japan book launch for Charlotte Perriand and Jean Prouvé, A Collection of Tamotsu Yagi. Published by Chariots on Fire Press and distributed via Post Books / Dover Street Market.

    Collaborators: Galerie Patrick Seguin, Jousse Entreprise, Laffanour Galerie Downtown/Paris

    Design: Tamotsu Yagi Design

  • August 4 – October 9, 2022 | "eye eAt" Food Culture & Design Exhibition & Salon Market

    (Exhibition Salon: October 6–9, 2022)

    Location: kōjin, Kyoto, Japan

    Context: An exhibition on food culture and its relationship with art/design. Curated and art-directed by gallery director Ritsuko Yagi alongside project manager Junco Ida, delivering fine drinks, sweets, and beautiful tabletop objects tailored to the "eye eAt" concept.

    Organizers: Kōjin Kyoto, Main Inc.

    Concept / Design: Tamotsu Yagi Design

    Art Direction: Ritsuko Yagi

    Salon: Chariots on Fire + Junco Ida

    Copywriter: Mayuko Yamaguchi | Photography: Shuji Yoshida

    キュレーターを務めるのは、ロサンゼルスを拠点に活躍するギャラリストでもあり、「eye eAt」展のアートディレクターも務める八木理都子。「eye eAt」展のコンセプトに合わせて、美味しいドリンクやお菓子、テーブル周りを彩る美しい小物をお届けします。プロジェクトマネジメント・井田順子とでお届けします。

  • August–October 16, 2022 | Jean Prouvé Oeuvre Exhibition (MOT Tokyo)

    Location: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Japan

    Context: Large-scale retrospective co-curated/directed by Ritsuko Yagi alongside Tamotsu Yagi Design, Galerie Patrick Seguin, and MOT. Presented over 100 landmark architectural structures and furniture pieces from the private collections of Yusaku Maezawa, Patrick Seguin, Tamotsu Yagi, and the Prouvé family.

  • October 18, 2022 | Chariots on Fire Press No. 3: "Gerry Beckley's America" Book Launch

    Location: Dover Street Market Ginza (BIBLIOTHECA), Tokyo, Japan

    Context: Official book release and talk event with musician/photographer Gerry Beckley and publisher/editor Ritsuko Yagi, presented with POST Books.

    Book Art Direction & Design: Tamotsu Yagi Design

    Citation:

    "Moments of beauty in beautiful cities are photographed and designed beautifully. A magnificent photography book that could only have been put together by him who traveled the world over time with great eyes."Hiroshi Fujiwara

  • October 18, 2022 | Tokyo Media Broadcast (InterFM)

    Location: Tokyo, Japan

    Context: Special live radio broadcast feature on George Cockle's Lazy Sunday on InterFM Tokyo, introducing Gerry Beckley's America to Japanese audiences.

  • October 21–25, 2022 | “Gerry Beckley's America” Photography Exhibition at kōjin

    Location: kōjin, Kyoto, Japan

    Context: Exhibition of travel photographs acting as modern visual postcards, capturing moments ranging from the abstract to the everyday across the globe.

    Citation:

    "I always enjoy getting a photograph from Gerry on his travels, the modern equivalent of a postcard, a picture with a message. His keen eye ranges freely from the very abstract to the very real and can find the special in the ordinary."Margaret Howell

  • November 5, 2023 | Tenshin Juba Matcha Tea Experience at Evan Kinori

    Location: Evan Kinori Studio, San Francisco, CA

    Context: Tea gathering hosted by salonnière Chariots on Fire alongside tea master Makiko Fujikawa (Urasenke Foundation San Francisco). Guests savored tea served in Tenshin Juba High-Fire Matchawan alongside traditional Kyoto higashi dry sweets. 100% of proceeds were donated to the Urasenke Foundation of San Francisco.

  • May 2024 | Tenshin Juba: High Fire #3 & Planet Wakusei (Design Miami/LA)

    Location: Historic Goldwyn House, Los Angeles, CA

    Context: Curated by Ritsuko Yagi for the inaugural Design Miami/LA, presenting Tenshin Juba’s celestial Wakusei(Planet) sculptures and high wood-fired ash-glazed tea bowls.

  • 2025 | Asuka Juba: Teapots & Rice-Husk Glazes

    Location: Chariots on Fire Presents

    Context: U.S. premiere of Asuka Juba's hand-thrown teapots and rice-husk ash glazes, high-fired in Kobe, Japan.

  • 2026–2027 | Twenty-Year Retrospective & Future Commissions

    Context: Celebrating 20 years of curation in Venice, CA (2006–2026) and preparing future international exhibition projects and ceramic releases with Makoto Kagoshima and Tenshin Juba.

here is the complete, masterfully detailed Chariots on Fire Cultural & Exhibition Archive (2006–2026).

This brings together every record from your archives—including the 2010 Tokyo discovery meeting, all 11 Makoto Kagoshima exhibitions, the spontaneous 2014 Joshua Tree trip that shaped his work, Tenshin Juba's hillside kiln story, and your international publishing milestones.

PART I: THE CURATORIAL PROVENANCE MANIFESTO

(To be placed on the main /archive or /about page)

Two Decades of Curation on Abbot Kinney (2006–2026)

Chariots on Fire was never simply a shop at 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney Boulevard. For two decades, it operated as a quiet cultural epicenter in Venice Beach—a bi-coastal bridge linking Los Angeles, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kobe.

Founded in 2006 by director Ritsuko Yagi, Chariots on Fire pioneered a philosophy centered on instinct, master craftsmanship, and raw material expression long before Japanese studio ceramics, botanical art, and raw-glazed stoneware entered the global design lexicon.

Operating at the intersection of curation, commissioning, and publishing, Chariots on Fire has continuously launched international careers, published definitive artist monographs, and brought together historic cross-cultural dialogues. From hosting U.S. debut exhibitions to co-curating major retrospective showcases at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Chariots on Fire remains a primary originator of modern design provenance.

PART II: THE UNABRIDGED EXHIBITION & CULTURAL ARCHIVE (2006–2026)

FOUNDATIONAL YEARS & DISCOVERY (2006–2012)

  • 2006 | Establishment of Chariots on Fire

    Location: Venice, California

    Provenance: Founded as an independent gallery and design sanctuary dedicated to rare objects, fine jewelry, and master craft.

  • 2010 | The Tokyo Meeting: Makoto Kagoshima Discovery

    Location: Tokyo, Japan

    Provenance: Gallery director Ritsuko Yagi discovers the work of Fukuoka-based artist Makoto Kagoshima—a single ceramic plate etched with an earth-toned flower. An instantaneous kinship leads to Yagi issuing an invitation for Kagoshima to present his work in the United States for the very first time.

THE EARLY EXHIBITION MILESTONES (2013–2014)

  • August 2013 | Makoto Kagoshima: U.S. Debut Exhibition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: The historic first solo exhibition of Makoto Kagoshima in America. Sponsored by Mid Century LA, introducing his signature sgraffito linework, botanical motifs, and whimsical fauna to Western collectors.

  • September 2013 | Adam Silverman Monograph (Rizzoli)

    Context: Monograph collaboration directed and designed by Tamotsu Yagi Design with Ritsuko Yagi, establishing the formal design lineage between ceramics and bookmaking.

  • May 2014 | A Tale of Plant & Pot (L.A. & Kyoto Debut)

    Location: Venice Beach, CA & Kyoto, Japan

    Context: Commissioned and produced by Chariots on Fire. Matched L.A. ceramicist Adam Silverman with Hiroshima botanical artist Kohei Oda (Qusamura) for Oda’s U.S. debut. Silverman threw experimental lava-glazed vessels specifically tailored to Oda’s rare, "ugly-beautiful" grafted cacti, launching a global desert-flora ceramic trend.

    Press & Monograph: Featured in NYT T Magazine, W, Wallpaper*, and Sight Unseen. Produced the publication Grafted: Plants by Kohei Oda & Pots by Adam Silverman with visual direction by Tamotsu Yagi Design. Instant sellout in Venice and Kyoto.

  • July 2014 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Ode to Summer" & Joshua Tree Expedition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA & Joshua Tree, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition created in direct response to the coastal climate of Venice Beach. Following the show, Kagoshima accompanied Yagi on a spontaneous journey to Joshua Tree, an experience that directly infused desert flora, cacti, and California light into his ongoing ceramic narratives (“What I create for Chariots embodies Los Angeles”).

  • August 2014 | Makoto Kagoshima: Ceramics & Gallery Wall Mural

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Second solo exhibition featuring unique earthenware works and a live, hand-drawn gallery wall mural completed on-site in Venice.

PUBLISHING, CULINARY ART & U.S. DEBUTS (2015–2017)

  • July 2015 & July 2016 | Makoto Kagoshima x Takahashi Yoshiko (S/S/A/W)

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Interdisciplinary solo exhibitions pairing Kagoshima’s hand-carved vessels with curated botanical food art and custom food delicacies by Tokyo chef Takahashi Yoshiko.

  • October 2016 | Tenshin Juba: U.S. Debut Exhibition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Exclusive U.S. debut exhibition of Kobe alchemist-potter Tenshin Juba. Introducing high wood-fired, ash-glazed Matchawan tea bowls and organic vessels created in his hand-built hillside kiln in the Rokkō mountains.

  • January 2017 | Chariots on Fire Press Launch: "Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics"

    Location: Los Angeles & Tokyo

    Context: Publication of the landmark 140-page monograph documenting over 100 commissioned works created for Chariots on Fire over a prolific five-year period. Printed in Japan by Takeo Paper using Kaleido ink. Art Direction by Ritsuko Yagi, Foreword by Ryuko Kida (Editor-in-Chief, Elle Decor Japan), Photography by Shuji Yoshida.

  • February 2017 | Tokyo Monograph Launch at Morioka Shoten

    Location: Ginza, Tokyo, Japan

    Context: International launch of Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics at Morioka Shoten ("A Single Room with a Single Book"), celebrating the global reach of the Venice-born publication.

  • August 2017 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Makomons"

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition presenting ceramic works alongside custom, hand-crafted confectionery delicacies by Fukuoka confectioner Tsumons.

INSTITUTIONAL SCALE, LIGHTING & TEXTILES (2018–2021)

  • September 2018 | Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics 2018

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Annual solo showcase featuring rare sgraffito platters, vessels, and custom table pieces.

  • November 2018 | Tenshin Juba: Outdoor Clippings & Porcelain Lighting

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Expanding Tenshin Juba’s practice into architectural space, presenting large-scale outdoor ceramic sculpture and translucent porcelain pendant lighting fixtures.

  • August 2019 | Makoto Kagoshima x Charlotte Perriand Dialogue

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Curated solo exhibition staging Kagoshima’s organic ceramics within historic mid-century spatial contexts, echoing the material philosophies of Charlotte Perriand.

  • December 2019 | Tenshin Juba: Cobalt Edition

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Dedicated solo show exploring Tenshin Juba’s deep mineral cobalt glazes across tea ceremony wares, celebration bowls, and organic forms.

  • Fall 2020 | Brooke Gregson: Raw Gemstone Series

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Fine jewelry exhibition showcasing custom 14k/18k gold hand-engraved works, raw Halo Tourmalines, and boulder opals.

  • November 2020 | Makoto Kagoshima: "Lovers"

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Solo exhibition centered on paired whimsical motifs—birds, flowers, and animated land creatures.

  • Fall 2021 | Makoto Kagoshima x Christopher Farr Cloth

    Location: U.K. & U.S.

    Context: Global textile and hand-woven rug edition curated by Chariots on Fire, translating Kagoshima’s linework into floor coverings and upholstery textiles.

  • October 2021 | Makoto Kagoshima Offsite 2021

    Location: Venice, CA

    Context: Offsite exhibition showcasing major unique ceramic works alongside signed copies of the Chariots on Fire Press monograph.

  • November–December 2021 | Chariots on Fire Holiday Market

    Location: 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney, Venice, CA

    Context: Site-specific showcase featuring Tenshin Juba vessels paired with floral installations by Krystal Chang, antique Japanese objet d'art, fine jewelry, and textiles by Gregory Parkinson.

GLOBAL MUSEUMS & MODERN ENCOUNTERS (2022–2026+)

  • August–October 2022 | Jean Prouvé Oeuvre Exhibition (MOT Tokyo)

    Location: Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (MOT), Japan

    Context: Co-curated and directed by Ritsuko Yagi alongside Tamotsu Yagi Design, Galerie Patrick Seguin, and MOT. Displayed over 100 iconic architectural works and furniture pieces from the private collections of Yusaku Maezawa, Patrick Seguin, Tamotsu Yagi, and the Prouvé family.

  • October 2022 | Exhibition at kōjin

    Location: Kyoto, Japan

    Context: Curated travel photo and postcard installation featuring an opening text contribution by British designer Margaret Howell.

  • November 2023 | Tenshin Juba x Evan Kinori Salon

    Location: San Francisco, CA

    Context: Collaborative tea salon and installation showcasing wood-fired wares brought directly from Tenshin Juba’s Kobe hillside studio into dialogue with raw-dyed garments.

  • May 2024 | Tenshin Juba: High Fire #3 & Planet Wakusei (Design Miami/LA)

    Location: Historic Goldwyn House, Los Angeles, CA

    Context: Curated by Ritsuko Yagi for the inaugural Design Miami/LA, presenting Tenshin Juba’s high wood-fired celestial Wakusei (Planet) sculptures and ash-glazed tea bowls.

  • 2025 | Asuka Juba: Teapots & Rice-Husk Glazes

    Location: Chariots on Fire Presents

    Context: U.S. premiere of Asuka Juba's hand-thrown teapots and rice-husk ash glazes, high-fired in Kobe, Japan.

  • 2026–2027 | Twenty-Year Retrospective & Future Commissions

    Context: Celebrating 20 years of curation in Venice, CA (2006–2026) and preparing for major upcoming ceramic project releases with Makoto Kagoshima and Tenshin Juba.

PART III: STEP-BY-STEP WEBSITE IMPLEMENTATION

Step 1: Update the Navigation Structure

In Squarespace (or your site builder), rename your secondary menu link from generic names to:

  • EXHIBITIONS & PROVENANCE (Linking directly to /chariotsonfirepresents or a newly designed /archive hub).

Step 2: Paste the Master Archive

Copy Part I (The Manifesto) and Part II (The Complete Chronological Archive) directly into the body section of the archive page. Organize the text with clear section headers (H2 for years, H3 for individual shows) so both visitors and search engines can scan it instantly.

Step 3: Embed Historical Photos

Under each exhibition listing, upload 2 to 4 high-resolution images of:

  1. Installation views inside 1342 1/2 Abbot Kinney.

  2. Monograph covers (Makoto Kagoshima Ceramics, Grafted).

  3. Historic press clips (NYT T Magazine, Wallpaper*, W Magazine).

This setup converts your digital presence into a recognized cultural institution.