Silke Decker

Porcelain maker

©Maya Meiners photographie

©Andre Reuter

©Maya Meiners photographie

Precious porcelain

Silke developed the technique of cord porcelain
Experimenting with and testing the material is a crucial part of her work
She enjoys the exchanges with colleagues

Silke Decker studied product design at the University of Fine Arts in Hamburg. She founded her own studio immediately after completing her studies in 2008. Her studio is located next to a small park, not far from the river Elbe. Silke works there independently, enjoying the peace and solitude. "The best thing about my job is the independence and the variety of tasks that being self-employed entails. But also the thought of being able to work in the studio for a whole day makes me smile – every day." Silke sometimes works for companies like Rosenthal or Kähler as a product designer. But her main focus is on continuing and developing her artistic porcelain line of cord porcelain. Some of her objects are award winners and are on display as part of many museum collections and institutions. Silke is an advisory member of the Siemens Foundation and a member of the Hamburg and Gedok Arts and Crafts council.

Interview

©Maya Meiners photographie

©Silke Decker

Why did you choose this craft?: During my product design studies, I had the most fun working on prototypes in the workshops. Trying out and experimenting with materials is still very important in my work. This is how new products sometimes even emerge.
What exactly is cord porcelain?: Wool threads are dipped in cast porcelain and laid out into braids. The threads burn in the oven and leave behind the pure porcelain. The structure of the wool threads is retained and gives the "cord porcelain" its special surface structure. It is important to me that the finished objects leaves the former associations of the used materials behind and stand completely on their own.
Is there anything new that you are experimenting with?: I'm currently experimenting with gemstones that I set in porcelain before firing. The other day a diamond went up in smoke in the oven. But it was only very small. Other gemstones, such as rubies, are better suited.
Why do you think it is important to join craft associations?: I think it is important to be in an exchange and to try to represent the interests of the industry together. I mostly work alone, so I enjoy professional and personal exchange with my colleagues through the debate and collaboration with associations and foundations.

Silke Decker is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2008