Julia Castillo

Ceramicist

Andres_Martinez©Michelangelo_Foundation

The craft of never giving up

Julia and her son Carlos work together to preserve their craft
She specialises in hen-shaped clay pots
Ceramics was a salvation for Julia in a difficult moment of her life

Julia Castillo was always determined to persevere despite the economic challenges she faced since her early childhood. She encountered ceramics at a challenging time in her life and it was a turning point for her. In the practice of clay modelling, she discovered a livelihood and her future. One afternoon, a hen that she had in her yard, came to stand next to her, and Julia saw in it the shape of a container. This is how her love for creating objects in the shape of hens was born. Julia taught ceramics to her son Carlos when he was young. For years, they have worked together in the workshop and taught others. They continue to encourage people to become artisans and work in the preservation of this beautiful craft.

Interview

Andres_Martinez©Michelangelo_Foundation

Andres_Martinez©Michelangelo_Foundation

Why did you choose this craft?: I discovered the ceramics during one of the most complicated moments of my life. It seemed a way of overcoming economic difficulties, and coming out of this situation. I taught my son, Carlos, to be an artisan in 1974, when he was young.
Do you train apprentices?: Yes, we run knowledge workshops. My son Carlos teaches workshops in schools, universities, and private companies. We have trained more than 800 people.
What do you do to preserve the craftsmanship you have?: We work hard to encourage young people to join projects such as these, which generate cultural and historical richness, and represent an income and a way of living.
Could your craft be considered in danger?: Yes, ceramicist as a profession is in danger, because of the plastic, iron, and metal industries which mass-produce and downplay the more traditional craft. Our products are more expensive since they are unique and handmade, without mechanical or industrial processes.

Julia Castillo is a master artisan: she began her career in 1974 and she started teaching in 1995