ceramics
Maria Oikonomidou
Please tell us a bit about yourself.
I'm Maria, a passionate ceramics artist and a loving mom of two kids and an Afghan hound in the heart of Athens, Greece . I moved with my family back to Greece after an amazing 8 years in shanghai . The lively art scene here fuels my creativity, and I cherish those evenings spent with friends, savoring wine in this vibrant city. Balancing artistry and motherhood isn't easy, but it's a journey that defines me, reflecting my dedication to both family and my craft.
What ignited your passion for ceramics and inspired you to pursue a career as a ceramic artist?
My passion for ceramics was ignited by the rich tradition that surrounds this art form. The slow and methodical process of shaping and firing clay has deep roots in history, connecting me to generations of artisans who have crafted pottery with their hands. This tradition not only resonates with me but also reminds me of the importance of patience and dedication in my work.
Where did you grow up? How do you think that these places, people, and traditions are now manifesting in your art?
Growing up in Thessaloniki, within a family deeply rooted in the lumber trading business, I was surrounded by the captivating world of craftsmanship from a very young age. My father and the skilled artisans who worked alongside him breathed life into humble pieces of wood, transforming them into magnificent structures. It was as if they were conjuring art from nature itself. This early exposure to the artistry of crafting with wood left an indelible mark on my soul. It's no wonder that I eventually found my calling as a ceramic artist.
The same passion for taking raw materials and shaping them into something beautiful and functional, which I had witnessed with wood, now finds expression in my work with clay. My journey as a ceramic artist is, in many ways, a tribute to the traditions and artistry that I admired and absorbed during my formative years.
How did the Body Parts collection came about?
My inspiration comes from the ancient anatomical votive offerings. These were clay body parts that the ancient Greeks offered to the gods in hopes of gaining favor. As a woman and a mother, I've always been deeply fascinated by the human body. When I first started working with clay, I knew I wanted to create anthropomorphic pieces to express these feelings. My art is a reflection of the human body's beauty and complexity.
It explores themes of life, creation, and nurturing, drawing inspiration from the ancient tradition of votive offerings. Through my work, I aim to capture the essence of the human form as a vessel of life, emotion, and spirituality. It's a homage to the enduring symbolism of the human body throughout history.
Can you share your thoughts on the benefits of working with clay and how it affects your happiness and well-being?
Working with clay is special to me. It lets me be creative and feel proud when I make something. It also helps me relax and feel less stressed because I focus on shaping the clay. It's like a peaceful break from screens and busy life, making me really happy. Clay is my little source of joy and calmness.
Could you elaborate on the creative process and the underlying concepts that drive your artistic pieces?
My art is made using traditional techniques like coiling and pinching with clay. I like to mix different types of clay and oxides to give my pieces unique textures. I use color and glazes to express emotions, like a romantic or Greek feeling. My vessels are special because they feel both in the present and from another time. They represent femininity, combining strength and sensitivity, just like clay is both fragile and strong, much like women. My art tells stories and evokes emotions through these techniques and themes.
Tell us more about your involvement in London Craft Week 23 and the beautiful theme of the exhibition you participated in.
I am absolutely delighted and grateful to have had the opportunity to participate in the "Resilient Clay" exhibition during London Craft Week, hosted at the Invisible Collection Gallery. This exhibition was a visionary project by the Swiss organization called rossogranada aimed at promoting contemporary Greek ceramicists and educating the audience about the rich history of Greek pottery, from ancient times to the present. It was an inspiring and fulfilling experience to showcase my work alongside fellow Greek ceramic artists and to connect with a diverse and appreciative audience.
This exhibition allowed me to not only share my passion for ceramics but also to forge meaningful connections with collectors, architects, interior designers, and fellow craft enthusiasts. It was truly a remarkable opportunity that filled me with immense joy and pride.
We strongly believe that crafts provide an ideal setting for environmental and social change. How can we create more space for that?
Crafts bring people together in a strong community. Ceramics can be a powerful way to speak up and make a positive impact on the world by organizing seminars , workshops , talks , collaborate with other artists , participate in exhibitions and communicate your message through your work.
What upcoming projects make you excited right now?
I’m creating larger body sculptures for my next exhibition with Rosso Granada . This allows me to explore new dimensions and materials, pushing the boundaries of my artistic expression .
Where and how can people engage more with your work?
In my studio in the center of Athens in kolonaki area. I accept studio visits upon appointment through email mariashanghai21@gmail.com. You can find me also on Instagram @maria.economides, and via my website www.mariashanghai.com.
