Hiraoka san likes to use normal, accessible materials for
his works. He mixes his own clay from Tajima and Shigaraki clays among others,
and makes his own glazes, including an oak ash and iron glaze inspired by
traditional karatsu glazes. He worked as an apprentice in Bizen, while
also learning the traditional karatsu style, and then moved near
Kasama, North of Tokyo, so he was free from any influences and could develop
his own style.
His pieces are often playful, dynamic and colourful - which
reflects his personality. Hiraoka san imagines using every piece he makes, and
his imagination usually involves a snack and a bottle of sake!