kayo o’young

Kayo O’Young is a self-taught artist recognized as one of Canada’s finest porcelain potters. In the industry, he is known as “a potter’s potter” and he serves as both teacher and inspiration to numerous potters.

The artistic gene has been part of the family for generations.  Kayo’s father and brother are also artists.  That explains why at the age of 14 Kayo chose the artistic journey while in high school in Toronto.

The day starts early for Kayo.  An early breakfast at the farmhouse  surrounded by 100s of vessels made over the last 60 years of his career – each one representing a milestone in his journey – and not for sale.  They tell his life story.  Each time I visit Kayo and Diane I ask about these beautiful pieces and each time I am reminded they are not for sale! One day…

Right after breakfast, Kayo finds himself in his potter shed – his happy place – until 5 pm each day.    And once in a while, he has the urge to pick up a paint brush and express himself on a large scale canvas that complements his pottery so well.

Kayo also says that for him it is easier to do pottery than putting a nail on the wall.  His hands are magical as he creates vases, bowls and vessels and each collection is glazed uniquely.

Kayo studied at the Central Art Tech School in Toronto. He opened his first studio in Toronto at the age of 24 and taught ceramics at John Abbot College, George Brown College, and various high schools . Kayo’s work is the focus of numerous exhibits in prestigious museums, galleries, private and public collections worldwide. His work has also been the subject of two films: The Hand and the Spirit (TV Ontario, 1992), and Playing with the Fire (CBC Arts and Entertainment, 1993).

For years, Gordon and I had the pleasure of visiting Kayo and his wife Diana, also a potter, at their farmhouse and potter shed in Trenton Ontario.  Diane works with Kayo to glaze those magnificent vessels.  We have proudly been collecting Kayo’s work for years at our lake house.  It is an honour today to represent him in our gallery.

Phil Émond

Gallerist