March 25, 2010

Artesa Ceramica


One of the great things about starting from scratch is that I’ll get to carefully choose every single thing that will go into my home and so, I’ve been holding back from buying anything for the home until I actually have a place for it. But today we went on a pottery outing and I just couldn’t stop myself from buying some gifts and then once I take out the wallet, I might as well buy something for myself, right?

First we went to Artesa (Av. Isabel La Catolica y Av. de Las Americas) and then to Eduardo Vega’s atelier in Turi (I’ll write about that tomorrow). The damage was minimal at Artesa as their stuff is primarily utilitarian—mostly tabletop items like serving pieces, dinnerware, and vases.



What I found most impressive at Artesa was the amount of actual hands on labor in the making of the pieces, in spite of the volume of production. We did a tour of their factory and it appeared extremely clean, orderly, and efficient. The items are completely handmade and the prices are quite reasonable. Here’s a craftsperson drawing the design on a piece.

Then it goes to another craftsperson, who’ll carefully apply the color before it goes into the kiln. There are several steps before and after this part of the process--it’s worth taking a look backstage if you go to the showroom store.

However, what really excited me was the gallery in the back of the showroom, where pieces from past collections are displayed. I don't know when the change in design direction took place but the pieces here are spectacular collector items.




I’d love to get my hands on any these—truly gorgeous.

5 comments:

Connie Pombo said...

Oh my, simply stunning! My husband's sister who lived in Ecuador for ten years has an entire collection of wooden spoons and we used to get one for Christmas each year. The pottery is absolutely gorgeous; I can't wait for your installment tomorrow (Vega's Studio).

Thanks for the tour!

Clarke said...

Hello Looloo. My name is Clarke Green. We haven't met, but clearly we have mutual friends. Brenda and i look forward to meeting you in June.
Regarding pottery. Fabulous! Brenda and I agree with you that we are looking forward to decorating from scratch. Can't wait.

Sapa Ynca said...

Looloo,
Excellent blog. My wife left in 1982 and we are now in the planning for a return this year. Interesting perspectives you two probably share! Viva Ecuador!

Lourdes said...

Hi Clarke and Brenda, we do have friends in common and I have been enjoying your blog! Looking forward to meeting you as well.

Lourdes said...

Sapa Ynca, I'd love to meet you guys and particularly to compare notes with your wife once you move here. It is, I think, a very specific experience to live here if you left as a young person. Keep in touch!