Albena Djokova

Theelen, Onno

Ceramicist

©Ivan Donchev

©Veselina Zheleva

The cup maker

Albena creates everyday tableware
She is inspired by children illustrations
She enjoys exploring the form of the cup

Albena Djokova's first encounter with applied arts came at an early age when she started collecting small ceramic figurines - a passion which lasted throughout her childhood. Later on she turned from a connoisseur to an artisan herself. A decisive moment in her art education at the National Art Academy in Sofia was her exchange semester spent in Faenza, Italy. There Albena had the opportunity to explore the inherent ceramics tradition of the place. It was here that she decided to become a professional ceramicist and start her own atelier in Sofia after finishing her studies. Ever since she has worked hard on establishing her own studio and a dedicated local clientele.

Interview

©Ivan Donchev

©Ivan Donchev

What is the trademark of your ceramic products?: Most often I decorate my products with porcelain droplets that turn into relief spots on the surfaces of the objects. I like to use them on almost every surface, because besides looking beautiful, they are nice to touch when one holds the object in their hand.
What recurring patterns do you use?: Flowers are something that interest me very much. Especially the image of the rose, which I explore quite often in my work. I like the idea of blossom that never fades and its endless visual interpretations. I experiment with various surface edging and layer making techniques.
How would you define your working process?: I adore the ceramic cup, because it is the nearest one can come in my profession to a white canvas. Usually I get my ideas all of a sudden, but then comes a long period of mastering them. Оne has to experiment with the material and the techniques in order to achieve the desired object.
What are your next professional steps?: I’m returning to my atelier after my maternity leave. These last two years have been dedicated to my family, but I also used the time to gather new professional ideas. Now I’m eager to try out new techniques and to experiment more.

Albena Djokova is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2005 and she started teaching in 2021