ceramics
Lisa Kosak
Please tell us a bit about yourself.
I'm Lisa Koza, and I run Helka Ceramics, a pottery studio in Berlin Kreuzberg, which I opened in March this year. The brand name comes from my initials LK, but now many people think it's my first name. I moved from Belgium to Berlin 10 years ago, working primarily in a small art publication and as a translator, copywriter, and proofreader.
How did you become a ceramist, and when was the moment of revelation that clay was a form you would like to explore?
I started pottery as a hobby, taking a class and becoming deeply involved. Eventually, I began selling my pieces due to an overflow at home. Everything moved pretty fast and my practice grew organically, I joined a community studio before moving into a shared studio with three other artists after a year and a half. I co-ran that space for four and a half years. In March 2023, I opened my own studio, allowing me to have more creative freedom and host events, including collaborations with the hospitality industry, creating a vibrant community around my space.
Can you take us through your process? Do you have a favorite part of the creation process?
I studied translation and had no formal education in art or pottery. I learned by taking classes, watching online tutorials, and a lot of trial and error. My work focuses on utilitarian pieces, mainly tableware. I begin with an idea, experiment with proportions through iterations, and strive to create elegant pieces. It's important for me to see the physical object to assess if the proportions work in real life. I want to make pieces I'd like to use myself. One aspect I enjoy is trimming the pieces, refining their silhouettes. I also take pleasure in building a brand and visual identity for my work.
Teaching classes and sharing my knowledge is fulfilling. My favorite part of the process is hard to pinpoint as it's a holistic experience. I create pieces that I personally want to use, even if no one else does. For example, I don't drink tea, so I don't connect with teaware, but I drink a lot of coffee. As my coffee habits change, so do the cups I create. I aim to make pieces that fit into daily routines, not something too precious to use that stays in a cupboard.
We know that you run pottery classes & workshops in Berlin. Could you tell us more about your teaching experience in this beautiful city and your early motivation to teach?
To be honest, I started teaching for financial reasons. Working in a community space meant covering not just rent but also firing fees, which added up as my practice grew. Teaching wasn't something I felt prepared for at the start, but over the years, I've gained valuable experience, and I now have a strong connection with my students, which I find very rewarding. In my teaching approach, I aim to go beyond just imparting pottery techniques. I believe it's important for my students to have a comprehensive understanding of the entire creative process.
This includes sharing insights into clay recycling, showcasing the sustainable practices within the studio. It's a way to make them aware of the environmental considerations in pottery. Moreover, I take the opportunity to provide a glimpse into the world of running a small, and often considered a micro, business. Many of my students are more accustomed to being employees and may not fully grasp the intricacies of small business operations. I find it valuable to expose them to the entrepreneurial aspects of managing a creative space, including finances, marketing, and decision-making. By offering this holistic perspective, I hope to broaden their understanding beyond the realm of ceramics and give them a more profound insight into the multifaceted nature of running a creative business. It also helps them appreciate the behind-the-scenes work that goes into every piece they create, making their experience in the studio more enriching and fulfilling.
Can you share your thoughts on the benefits of working with clay and with your hands and how it affects your happiness and well-being?
It's interesting because I've experienced both ends of the spectrum, transitioning from a 100% computer-based job to almost 100% manual work. I find immense satisfaction in creating tangible objects after working on something intangible for so long. It's like magic when I can take an idea and mold it from clay. However, there's a balance to strike. On one hand, there's the aspect of working with what could be seen as luxury products, which can feel a bit futile, especially in today's world context. It's a challenge to promote such products when there are serious issues around us. But then, there's the direct connection with people who buy these creations, the instant gratification of turning ideas into reality, and the joy that pottery brings.
In terms of well-being, it's a physically demanding job. I've learned to slow down and take care of my body. Regular exercise, like going to the gym or swimming, is crucial for maintaining both mental and physical health. It's all about finding that balance.
Where do you think the biggest potential lies in preserving important local crafts in the contemporary context?
To address this, it's essential to spread the word, educate, and learn about the processes behind everyday objects. It's surprising how many people don't know how common items are made or where they come from. Staying curious and understanding the production process, even for things as simple as a cup of coffee or a chair, is crucial. There's a growing awareness of local makers and slow movements, which aligns with the importance of sustainability and responsible consumption. It's about fostering compassion, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the people who create these items and the impact of our choices on the world.
What upcoming projects are currently sparking your excitement?
At this time of year, I'm working on various things. Currently I'm in the process of finalizing my winter campaign, collaborating with a different photographer each year. Most of my ceramics are ready, allowing me to concentrate on back-end tasks, such as updating my website and preparing the visuals and pictures for the new collection. I'm also busy organizing events at my studio, where I invite different makers.
These events provide an excellent opportunity to connect with people whose work I admire, and it's a chance to showcase their creations. These gatherings are a real joy for me as I get to meet them in person and discuss their work and creative processes. Looking ahead, I'm planning to work on new pieces. With the acquisition of a larger kiln, I have the opportunity to create more substantial objects. I've been toying with the idea of making lamps, so that might be a future project in the works.
Where and how can people engage more with your work?
You're always welcome to visit my studio in Kreuzberg by appointment or explore my offerings on my website. For an inside look at day-to-day studio life, I regularly share updates on Instagram. I've also started a monthly newsletter with some personal touches, like sharing our team lunch recipes or creating playlists to provide a more holistic glimpse into my universe. Feel free to subscribe if you haven't already!
On my website and my instagram, by sending love, thoughts and buying my work. I am always excited to receive requests for custom pieces, in different formats or on various supports. I also published a book about my embroidery work, you can find the link to buy it on my website: @_celiabruneau www.celiabruneau.com
Photos by Sophie Arancio, Mylène Comte, and Louis Thomas, as stated underneath each photo, and all the rest belong to Célia Bruneau .
