Alfonso Hidalgo Cruz

Innovating in the wake of tradition

• Alfonso's workshop is a place where innovation meets family tradition
• His contemporary aesthetic is the result of thorough research
• He was awarded the prestigious Premio Nacional de Artesanía in 2023, in the category Emprendimiento empresarial

Born as the sixth generation of family business Alfarería Góngora, Alfonso Hidalgo Cruz was raised surrounded by pottery. Following his studies in archaeology and a degree in artistic ceramics, he opened his own workshop, Góngora Cerámica, to explore and make artistic and contemporary ceramics thanks to his process of research and innovation. Alfonso takes his roots seriously and pays profound respect to what his father taught him, as his master mentor. He also takes pride in having been the first to carry out complex ceramic techniques in his native Úbeda such as zinc crystallisation, high temperature glazes, pit firing and rakú. To make his pieces, Alfonso combines different shaping methods like turning, sheeting and modelling.

Interview

©Juan Manuel Molina

©Juan Manuel Molina

How do you feel about being a ceramicist in 2024?

I feel a deep connection with the DNA of my family and the identity of Úbeda, shaped by the art of ceramics. However, to make my practice relevant there must be an evolution, which can occur only through research, innovation, and risk-taking, albeit with respect for the past.

How do you recognise a well made piece?

To me it should tick all the boxes of excellence in the making process, without missing its artistic harmony and identity. The weight of the piece matters and shapes should be modern. Finally, firing is essential to achieve a sophisticated and unique finish and look.

What do you communicate to the public about how ceramics are made?

I use every opportunity to spread the word! Our pieces are fired at a high temperature, 300° over traditional firing temperatures, making our pieces more durable. For instance, our tableware is more sustainable as more durable.

What makes the relationship with your family so close?

I learned everything from them. I will never forget how I felt when I saw my parents crying when I won an important award here in Spain. My father has been the master artisan who taught me the craft, trusting and always supporting me, even when I ventured into experimenting with techniques he was not familiar with.

Alfonso Hidalgo Cruz is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2010 and he started teaching in 2020

Works

©Juan Manuel Molina

©Juan Manuel Molina

©Juan Manuel Molina

©Juan Manuel Molina

©Juan Manuel Molina

Where

Experiences

Introductory course on raku ceramics in Úbeda

3 Hours

40 EUR per person

An introductory demonstration to ceramics in Úbeda

1 Hour

30 EUR per person