Clay is one of the most primal and essential materials. A union of earth and water, which through fire, transforms and acquires form and life.
Dimitra Safiolea.
One of the very first materials that man laid his hands upon, was clay. In the beginning clay was used only to satisfy everyday needs. Later, following human evolution, clay became a means of creation, in order to ‘describe’ life, love and the world around it.
My own journey with clay began at the age of 18, in the art studio of DEPA Kalamata, next to Myrto Maganari. It was there that my deep connection with ceramics was born ⋅ a relationship that has since evolved into a constant search for expression of my inner world.
This journey continued with Spyros Arvanitis, with whom I worked for many years, delving particularly into the Raku firing technique – a process that fascinated me for its spontaneity and uniqueness.
My love for the visual arts and handmade objects, combined with my knowledge and experience in ceramics and the raku technique, led me to create my own workshop – a venture born with dedication and passion.
With my hands as an extension of my soul, I mold the clay aiming of each ceramic work to awake emotions and to create a personal dialogue with the viewer.
SPYROS ARVANITIS
Spyros Arvanitis was both my husband and my teacher.
He was born and raised in Messinia. His first encounter with clay was through his father, who made urns.
He studied at Doxiadis School and the Centre of Technological Applications. He taught ceramics courses for three years for the Municipality of Athens. Overcoming the boundaries of traditional ceramics, he expressed himself in a more decorative manner while simultaneously exploring new methods and techniques in his quest for expression and balance between sculpture and architectural functionality.
For many years he was engaged in the raku technique.
He passed away in 2015.