Takuro Shibata is a ceramist originally from Japan currently living in Seagrove, North Carolina. He graduated with a bachelor’s of Engineering in Applied Chemistry from Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan. After Graduation, he became an apprentice potter in Shigareki, one of the oldest pottery villages in Japan. Takuro and his wife, Hitomi, first visited the United States in 2001 and had the opportunity to join some ceramic residency programs. He then accepted a position as director of STARworks ceramics in 2005, and began a local clay making project and artist-in-residence program. He often joins exhibitions, events, and gives lectures and workshop. He has a widely known reputation as a ceramic artist and clay specialist. His work in both regards has been featured in media, publications, and conferences globally.