Meet Nelson: The Cat Who Runs a Pottery Studio in Japan

Nelson, The Mascot Cat

Meet Nelson: The Boss of Galaxy Glaze

Hello, humans! My name is Nelson, and I run a pottery workshop in Japan. Well, technically, the hoomans do the pottery—I supervise. My kingdom is called "Galaxy Glaze (GINGAYU) Gyokuhougama," and it is based in Takeo City, Saga Prefecture. It’s a place where clay turns into shimmering masterpieces under my watchful eye. If you’ve ever encountered  a stunning piece of pottery from here, you should probably thank me.

Nelson Photobombing with his Beauty

From Shelter Cat to Studio Supervisor

I wasn’t born into this artistic life. My journey started when my hoomans found me through a foster application website. It seems my family has a thing for black cats, so when my future pawrents saw me, they knew I was the missing piece. They named me Nelson, after some great historical figure—I think he was a leader of some sort, but let’s be real, I’m the one leading here.

Nelson Supervising the Humans in the Studio

A Day in the Life of a Pottery Cat

At three years old, I’ve already mastered the fine art of pottery. My job? Perch nearby, silently judge and occasionally nod in approval. My apprentice, Sten, came from the Netherlands to learn pottery, but between us, I think he also learned from me. He wasn’t sure about selling his first pieces, but when I jumped onto his shoulder—an honor I rarely bestow—he took it as a sign. That pottery fair? Huge success. You’re welcome, Sten.

Nelson Sitting on Sten’s Shoulders—Just Because He Can

The Quirks and Hobbies of a Studio Guardian

Life here isn’t all work, though. I have hobbies. Sniffing car scents is my speciality—I love in particular license plates. Call it an advanced security system. I have a particular fondness for dried fish (iriko) and occasionally disappearing just to keep things interesting—like that one time I managed to get myself locked inside a fire station (a story for another day).

When I’m not indulging in snacks or accidental adventures, I take my supervisory duties seriously, ensuring my fellow feline colleagues stay in line.There’s Ramesses, who looks like me but isn’t me, Pachimon, the "fake Pugachev," and Pocky, the moustached queen of the house. We coexist, though we all know who’s boss (me, obviously).

a) Nelson Reminding Everyone Who's the Boss. b) Pocky, the Moustached Queen of the House

The Legend of Nelson’s Collar

Oh, and if you're wondering about the bell on my collar—no, it’s not a masterpiece from the studio. I had a fancy one once, but let’s just say… I have a talent for losing things. Now, I wear one with an AirTag because my hoomans worry that I might get lost when I go on adventures.

Nelson Lounging in the Sun

Visit Galaxy Glaze – Nelson’s Kingdom

If you ever visit the studio, you might spot me lounging in the sun, inspecting fresh pottery, or giving Sten a hard time. And if you can’t make it, don’t worry—the hoomans sell their pottery online, and my face even graces some exclusive merchandise. Limited edition, of course.

Nelson Inspiring Sten Every Day Just by Existing

So, whether you’re here for the art, or just my undeniable charm, you are welcomed to Galaxy Glaze. And remember—behind every great piece of pottery, a cat is making sure it’s up to standard.

Want to see more of my pawsome life? Follow me and my pottery crew on Instagram at @gingayu_gyokuhogama!

Pawsitively yours,

Nelson

Tetsuaki Nakao, Potter and Workshop Owner, with Nelson