Photos above, in order from start:
Flora I & II, hellebore and dahlia with porcelain cup by Flora Fabris.
Françoise I & II, lisianthus and clay vase by Françoise De Smet.
Kosi I & II, anenome and iris with clay vase by Kosi Hidama.
Nancy I & Nancy II, ‘Evelyn’ rose with ‘Lady Tree’ sculpture by Nancy Hoopman.
Sigi, peony and clay cup by Sigrid Sandker.

In ceramics, unlike with many other art forms, such as photography or painting, the hands of the maker are almost always the primary, direct tool. Kidneys, wires, knives, sponges, needles, and other devices can be used, but whether wheel throwing or handbuilding, it always comes back to the hands. It is the hands which engage in dialogue with the clay, and it is the hands, and by extension, the personality of the maker that are present in the final form.

Over the years that I’ve been studying and working with clay and porcelain, I’ve had the privilege to meet, discover, and learn from some generous, talented makers. This project is intended both as a tribute to some of of them, and also as the start of an archive of sorts, of those working with clay. As I live in Belgium, with its rich ceramics culture, my focus is rooted here, but when logistically possible, I extend the borders further.

Each photo contains a piece by the artist, along with one of their favourite flowers, and as the background, their favourite colour, often on handmade Japanese paper. The simple aesthetic of the photos was inspired by Japanese ikebana photography and the tea ceremony, and the idea of treating all life with reverence. By focusing on what the artists make and love, I aim to create photographic portraits that give a little peek into their practices and the lives behind them.

Many thanks to all the artists for their support and participation.