Mieko Sawada is a professor of Japanese language and culture at the Kyoto Institute of Technology specializing in Linguistics and KOGEI (Japanese Arts and crafts). She is a writer, academic, and critic of Arts and Crafts and an award-winning educator. Professor Sawada is a member of the Japan Ceramic Society and has published five books on KOGEI and one book on Japanese ceramic artists. Today, her international active learning program on Japanese art and craft continues to grow with enthusiasm. Currently, Professor Sawada is excited to be included as an acting juror for a new national grant project in guidance with the Minister of Cultural Affairs.