Iosifina Kosma

The architect of clay

• Iosifina discovered her love for clay at a very young age
• Her craft helps her to get to know herself better
• Her work is characterised by curves and balance between opposites

Iosifina Kosma discovered her love of clay from a young age and over the years has experimented with a variety of different techniques and styles. A characteristic feature of her work is the curve which is the first shape her hands instinctively create when she holds a piece of clay. For Iosifina, the moment of inspiration is a blessing and she refrains from over-analysing it, allowing the process of creation to guide her. For her latest line of artworks, she has created abstract, asymmetrical, sculptural forms. Working with stoneware clay, she crafts her artworks piece by piece and then connects all the parts together to bring her vision to life.

Interview

©All rights reserved

©All rights reserved

What is your educational background?

I studied architecture at the National Technical University of Athens, whilst also following ceramics classes in colleges and private studios. I then obtained a Master of Arts with merit in ceramics from Middlesex University in London.

Why did you become interested in clay?

I felt fascinated by clay from the very first moment. It is a primitive, warm material whose plasticity records and conveys the emotions and movement of the artist during work. With this interaction of material and artist, creation becomes a constant challenge to bring out what is within our soul.

How much has your degree in architecture influenced your art?

To me, architecture may be considered to be large-scale sculpture, so I believe that my studies play an important role in developing my aesthetic. When studying architecture I learned about drawing, synthesis and composition of volumes – elements that played an important role in my development as a ceramicist.

Do you think your craft is in danger?

In Greece there are no university departments in the field of ceramics, so it is difficult for those interested to acquire a complete and deep knowledge of this craft. However, in recent years there has been an increased interest in ceramics and many people feel the need to express themselves through clay. This allows us to be optimistic for the future.

Iosifina Kosma is a master artisan: she began her career in 1999 and she started teaching in 2000

Works

©All rights reserved

©All rights reserved

©All rights reserved

©All rights reserved

©All rights reserved

Where