The Shinemon kiln was established in Arita, Saga Prefecture, in 1972 by Shinichiro Baba (1924-2009), who took the artist name Shin’emon. While originally established to produce large format sometsuke porcelain in the fashion of Arita-ware, Shin’emon I gradually transitioned to producing works using yohen technique. Yohen technique refers to a process of “kiln transmutation” where in the heat, oxygen levels, wood, ash, and mineral content of the glaze interact in unpredictable ways. Many important forms of Japanese pottery employ some form of yohen, from Bizen-ware to Jun-ware to certain Oribe techniques.

During his life, Shin’emon I was highly decorated and awarded for his contributions to contemporary craft. His work was repeatedly selected for inclusion at many exhibitions in Kyushu prefecture, the Japan Fine Arts Exhibition (Nitten), the Ceramic Art FUJI International Biennale, and a special exhibition highlighting ceramics from Saga at the British Museum.

Shinemon kiln has been led by Kusuo Baba, Shinemon I’s son and working under the name Shinemon II, since 2007. Born in 1973, Shinemon II began working at the kiln in his late teens and has continued the family tradition. He is a highly decorated artist, receiving the Special Selection Award in the Craft Art Division at the 44th Nitten, as well as awards in Japan including from The Japan Contemporary Arts and Crafts Exhibition, the Special Prize for the 50th Anniversary of the Prefectural Exhibition in 2000, and the top prize at the 2012 Contemporary Craft Art Kyushu Exhibition.