" In a state of constant artistic evolution, ceramics are a true playground for experimentation that is reflected throughout my various collections. Each of my pieces is unique, and I hope their authenticity will move you as much as the clay has moved me. "
claudia fagotti
ATELIER MIRA
Ceramicist, Lyon (69)
Claudia Fagotti tells us how a "simple introductory pottery wheel class" sparked the passion that would lead to the creation of ATELIER MIRA three years later, in 2022.
Tell us your story, how did you find your vocation?
Like many, a simple introductory pottery wheel class almost 3 years ago and BOOM, I fell in love! I tried to join a studio in Paris, but everything was full or didn't fit my work schedule... A year later, I met a ceramicist who welcomed me into her studio for several weeks and introduced me to hand-building and glazing. That encounter convinced me to make it my profession. I then moved to Lyon and completed two throwing internships at a studio, where I became a member right after! Since then, I've launched my brand, my collections, done my first designer market, and opened my online shop!
How would you describe your style and your artistic approach in a few words?
I really enjoy trying out new creation and decoration techniques. I started with a collection of decorative objects (bud vases), the second one is made entirely of tableware, and the next one will be very different again! I love constantly reinventing myself.
What themes or subjects inspire you the most in your work?
Mainly my travel memories, whether through a landscape or the colors of the country. But I also really like sobriety and minimalism; my collections are a mix of very colorful pieces and others that are much more refined.
How do you work?
My work is divided between a studio in the heart of Lyon where I have access to all the necessary quality equipment, which I share with other ceramicists, and my apartment where one room is dedicated to my practice; I have my own wheel at home, which is very convenient for working quietly. I work exclusively with stoneware, and the majority of my pieces are wheel-thrown, then decorated and glazed by hand.
Do you have a particular technique, a specific expertise? Without revealing all your secrets, have you developed your own methods and techniques?
I am increasingly enjoying combining wheel-throwing and hand-building for my pieces, as it allows me to use different techniques for each one.
Tell us about your daily life, your constraints, your joys, your successes…
My days are divided between working the land and all the digital aspects that cannot be overlooked; social media and the website are also part of my daily routine. But I always try to set aside a little time for pure creativity, so that I’m not just producing, but also continuing to develop my imagination and clear my mind of constraints like inventory or failed pieces coming out of the kiln after I’ve spent hours on them... Ceramics is a very long process; each piece is fired twice, and you never really know what’s going to come out of the kiln, which can be a bit frustrating and sometimes fascinating!
A message to convey, anything else you would like to share?
Don't hesitate to try pottery, as it is a very relaxing, almost meditative activity that I recommend everyone try! But above all, continue to support the artisans who work hard to offer you the authentic :)
