MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Etsuji Yamada has been making works of art for 32 years. People from all over Japan have flocked to his shop, located in Iwakuni just a short drive from the Station, to purchase his beautifully handcrafted pottery.
Despite the fame that has come with his incredible talent, Yamada still finds his cheeks blushing when faced with the prospect of teaching American students his finely tuned craft.
"I started teaching Americans last December and at the time I spoke very little English and that made me very nervous. Now I am taking English lessons with one of my students, and I have a lot more guts now," laughed Yamada.
Yamada's pottery class holds a maximum of 15 students on Tuesday nights from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at a price of 2,000 yen per class. The classes run in six sessions with the seventh class being completely up to the student in a freestyle form with Yamada on the sideline watching and guiding.
"In the beginning classes I teach basic skills and we build on those with each class. I go over step by step and when it's time for the students to freestyle they can use any of the many skills they have learned," said Yamada.
Although Yamada still struggles with explaining certain things to his American students in English, the help of the many bilingual participants in the class break through any language barrier.
"Yamada uses a lot of hand gestures to help explain what he wants of his students, but if the student needs more help, I or the other Japanese speaking students will assist in the translating," said Kanae Oikawa, training and curriculum specialist at the Child Development Center and class participant.
Mary-Jane Johnson, class participant and Station residents added, "You understand what he?s asking of you even if it takes a little more time than usual."
According to Oikawa, those aboard the Station do not have to be in the class to enjoy Yamada's work.
Bowls, plates, cups and other items that are more on the artistic side rather than the more practical use, decorate the front of Yamada?s shop. Prices vary, but each piece comes with the artist's special touch.
"There's a wide range of items to choose from, and I also do specially ordered items like the one I did for the Station," said Yamada.
Yamada also stated whether he is teaching a class or sculpting a masterpiece one thing is always certain.
"Through pottery I can connect with people no matter what the difference in cultures are, and that is my favorite part of my work," said Yamada.
For more information call Mary-Jane Johnson at 253-2557.