Radenko Adnad

Chawan studio

Ceramicist

From painter to potter

Radenko is a painter who became a ceramicist
He mostly makes ceramic teaware
He received numerous awards for his works

Radenko Adnađ is a Serbian painter and graphic artist who unexpectedly discovered his interest in ceramics when he was in his early thirties. To this day he is still fascinated by it. As a ceramicist, he specialises in making teapots and cups. His studio is full of wondrous pieces of tableware – a tea lover's paradise. There, Radenko brings to life not only functional pieces of tableware, but also objects of aesthetic beauty that celebrate the timeless tradition of tea drinking. Drawing inspiration from traditional tea cultures around the world, Radenko brings a touch of history and distant cultures to each of his creations. His works have been exhibited at numerous group and individual exhibitions in Serbia and abroad. He is a member of the Association of Fine Artists of Applied Arts and Designers of Serbia.

Interview

How did your interests shift from painting to ceramics?: At some point in my life, I became fascinated with the pottery wheel. Later I made one myself and started exploring the possibilities of what can be made from ceramics. And here I am today, still just as intrigued and fascinated by ceramics.
Do you like to pass on knowledge about ceramics to others?: Yes. I used to work in education with children of preschool age. I formed a ceramics studio for paraplegic adults and children where I also train educators who work with children in the paraplegic department at the Sokobanjska Institute for Rehabilitation in Belgrade.
What is your relationship with the trainees you have had?: I have had some apprentices in the past. At first, we would be working together, but later we became friends who enjoy creating together. One of my students decided to study sculpture in college because I helped him fall in love with ceramics.
What do the awards you received mean to you?: I have received many acknowledgements for my work throughout my professional life. But I have to say that the award I received from the Association of Fine Artists of Applied Arts and Designers of Serbia is really the dearest to me because I received it from my colleagues.

Radenko Adnad is a master artisan: he began his career in 1987 and he started teaching in 2000