Art + Design From Artists in the Pacific Northwest, Japan and Beyond. | Since 1995
What is The Simple Cup Show?
The show has one mission: to celebrate the wonderful, simple cup. Each year, co-curators invite a list of ceramic artists to create their ode to the cup.
In year's past, clay artists from around North America, UK, Thailand, and Japan have participated.
The annual show takes place at KOBO is a collaboration with Seward Park Clay Studio, and KOBO Gallery at Higo in Japantown.
Will the cups be available for purchase?
Yes, at the Opening Reception Lottery (see below), then the next day it is opened up to everyone, in-store at the Japantown location and online.
What is the Opening Reception Lottery?
Those who want first pick take their chances by drawing a lottery number at the Opening Reception/first day of the cup show (1-2pm). Lottery numbers are called out chronologically in groups of ten, led to the cup gallery and have a few moments to choose their cup. This is an exciting event!
What to expect after drawing a lottery number at Opening Reception:
Depending on what time you come to draw your number, there may be a wait before the numbers are called. We invite you to mingle with fellow collectors and ceramic artists around the little fire pit in Chiyo's Garden behind KOBO with a cup of hot cider and snacks. Remember, it's November, so dress for the weather! Also, there's a lot to explore in the neighborhood: shopping at Sairen, coffee at Panama Hotel Cafe, snacking at Fuji Bakery, groceries at Uwajimaya. Be back by 1:50pm, because we will start calling numbers at 2pm.
May I take my cup home the same day that I purchase it?
No, we keep the cups for two weeks for others to have a chance to view the entire show.
May I preview the cups prior to the Opening?
Yes. Preview the cups in-person the day before the Opening at KOBO Gallery in Japantown, and online.
The Opening Reception Lottery event is over, what happens with the remaining cups?
The remaining cups will be available to purchase both in-person and online. *Please note: Cups will be held for two weeks after the opening, then be available for pick-up or shipped.
