Karin Flurer-Brünger

Ceramicist

©Eva Korn

Clay as a source of strength and harmony

Karin is an experienced ceramicist who makes art pieces and tableware
She was the last apprentice of master Gerhard Seiler
Creativity and teaching merge harmoniously in her life

Karin Flurer-Brünger is a professional ceramicist who has worked with clay since the 1970s. She participates in workshops and symposia, and curates and organises international ceramic exhibitions. Trained by famous Bunzlau ceramics master Gerhart Seiler in Bavaria, Karin sees herself as a contemporary ceramicist whose work combines tradition and innovation, thanks to techniques such as wheel throwing, hand moulding, and experimental firing methods. "For me, it is essential to not only create, but also spread the inner harmony that clay brings," she says. For this reason, Karin has been a teacher for many years. She organises workshops and teaches students at Landau University, and in her youth, she taught young soldiers to work with clay in Congo. Karin has written a popular book called Faszination Ton, to bring more people into contact with clay and experience its benefits.

Interview

©Eva Korn

©Eva Korn

How did you get into this craft?: I have been involved in handicrafts and crafts since I was a child. My grandmother and aunt sewed, knitted, and wove baskets, but the biggest influence on me was my father, who was extremely good at drawing. When it came to choosing a profession, I wanted something related to creativity and craftsmanship.
What is your relationship with tradition and innovation?: I trained in a traditional ceramics workshop, where earthenware is made from red clay. I received a traditional education and I respect tradition immensely. However, I work with Westerwald stoneware clay, mix my own glazes, use non-traditional firings, and modern materials, and convey modern ideas in my work.
What do you value in ceramics?: I combine two realms in my work: I create art objects and vessels for everyday use, both of which are meant to enrich people's daily lives. I want them to use beautiful handmade objects, and to feel a little bit of the soul of the artist when they use them, through the tactility of a handmade object.
What inspires you to create?: First of all, nature and natural phenomena. Next to my workshop is a big garden full of roses., which is why my work often features roses and other floral motifs. I am inspired by fire, water, waves, and the movement of people. But another important source is poetry and language.

Karin Flurer-Brünger is a master artisan: she began her career in 1973 and she started teaching in 1992