Sources: Yoshiro Ikeda, 785-532-6033, iyoshi@k-state.edu;
and Gerry Craig, 785-532-6605, gkcraig@k-state.edu
Pronouncer: Yoshiro Ikeda is Yo-sheer-oh I-kay-duh
Photo available. Contact media@k-state.edu or 785-532-6415.
News release prepared by: Rosie Hoefling, 785-532-6415, media@k-state.edu

Monday, Feb. 22, 2010

K-STATE ART PROFESSOR TO RECEIVE NATIONAL TEACHING AWARD

MANHATTAN -- Kansas State University's Yoshiro Ikeda, university distinguished professor of art, will be presented with the Excellence in Teaching Award at the 44th annual conference of the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts. The conference will be March 31-April 3 in Philadelphia, Pa.

The award is given to one professor in the nation who has dedicated many years to being an extraordinary teacher. The recipient also must demonstrate excellence in his or her own work, as well as through the continuing accomplishments of students.

Ikeda was nominated for the award by a former student. His award recognition and images of his artwork will be published in the National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts Journal.

Ikeda's body of ceramic artwork includes many hand-built pieces, which he said give him a sense of freedom and possibility. He also has incorporated wheel-thrown elements into some of his pieces over the years.

"Throughout my artistic career, I have drawn inspiration and ideas from my surroundings," Ikeda said. "My works have reflected the organic aspects of nature, the ever-changing weather and the art of dancing."

Ikeda has taught at K-State for 32 years. He currently teaches ceramic arts and graduate student courses. He has received more than 50 awards for his work, which has been included in more than 350 exhibitions in North America and 37 international exhibitions in Japan, France, Spain Korea, Taiwan, England, Brazil and New Zealand. Since 1983 he has presented more than 40 workshops and lectures across the United States and in Scotland, Japan, Korea and Brazil. He earned the title of university distinguished professor, K-State's highest faculty honor, in 2004.

According to Gerry Craig, head of the K-State department or art, Ikeda's teaching draws out the best in students.

"His students love and respect him and his work, which has been an agent of change in the world of ceramics for three decades," Craig said. "He demonstrates through his own disciplined art practice the pleasure gained from having high expectations."

More information about Ikeda and his artwork is available at:
http://www.k-state.edu/art/faculty/bios/ikeda_yoshiro/index.html