Þórdís Baldursdóttir

I Ceramic

Ceramicist

©Rannveig Gisladottir

©Steve Ogden

©Iris Stefansdottir

Palpable nature

Þórdís enjoys experimenting with materials
She balances control and allowing the clay to speak
She makes elegant functional forms out of porcelain

Þórdís Baldursdóttir attributes her understanding of people and human interactions to her past career as a nurse. It might not be an obvious connection with tableware design, but this understanding of people allows her to create products that resonate and are beautiful in their functionality. She is inspired by the rough and wild Icelandic nature, where the evidence of natural forces is so visible – the sands, glaciers and lava fields. Þórdís draws on these powerful elements as she works with clay, pushing and pulling it into forms and playing with glazes. She often uses local clay in her designs. It is through these two key elements – her understanding of people and connection with nature – that Þórdís creates objects which elevate the everyday experience.

Interview

©Rannveig Gisladottir

How did you learn your craft?: I received a diploma in ceramics from The Reykjavik School of Visual Arts in 2008 and then finished my BA in Contemporary Arts and Design, specialising in ceramics, from The University of Cumbria in England in 2011.
Do you remember the moment when you first thought of picking up this craft?: I have always been creative, but I took a ceramics course with a great teacher. This opened up the world of ceramics. I found clay was the best material for me to express my ideas. The ability to design and work hands-on with the clay fascinates me.
How would you describe your connection with clay?: It is a combination of trying to control the material and learning. It is also a good feeling working with your hands in the clay. It is a natural material that brings nature to you. I enjoy allowing it to reveal its beauty.
What do you love most about your profession?: I love working with basic natural elements: clay, water and heat. I experiment with clay and glazes. The kiln is where we have least control, and where surprises emerge. I like the challenge of trying to control the uncontrollable.

Þórdís Baldursdóttir is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2009