Tatjana Kovačević-Vidović

Clay as therapy

• Tatjana is one of few Bosnian artisans working with clay
• She considers ceramics a therapeutic practice
• She organises pottery classes for children and adults

Pottery was almost an extinct craft in Bosnia and Herzegovina until 37-year-old product designer Tatjana Kovačević Vidović opened her ceramic studio in the capital Sarajevo eight years ago. She uses traditional techniques to make new objects that we use every day. Clay is a natural material that can connect us to our interior, she believes, which is why she organises pottery courses in her studio in Sarajevo, motivating many locals to relax and relieve stress while playing with clay. “It allows for meditation, complete concentration on what we are doing,” Tatjana adds. And that's one of the things she likes most about clay.

Interview

©Tako ceramics studio

©Tako ceramics studio

When and how did you start working with clay?

One of my projects during my studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Sarajevo was to make a ceramic cup, which took me to a factory in Serbia that primarily produces roofing tiles. It was there that I first tried a pottery wheel and became acquainted with the whole process of pottery making.

How is your craft related to your country?

The production of ceramics dates back to the Neolithic period, so the production of ceramics is one of the oldest crafts that exists in Bosnia and Herzegovina. To keep it alive, I organise pottery courses for various age groups.

What advice would you give to aspiring potters?

That being successful working with clay takes time and patience. For me, a well-made item is one that I am emotionally and professionally satisfied with, and which is appreciated by clients.

Do you consider your craft to be therepeutic?

Working with clay enables us to connect with our inner being, meditate, and concentrate completely on what we are doing.

Tatjana Kovačević-Vidović is a master artisan: she began her career in 2011 and she started teaching in 2011

Works

©TAKO studio

©TAKO studio

©TAKO studio

©TAKO studio

©TAKO studio

Where

Experiences

Pottery making courses in Sarajevo

1 Hour

25 EUR per person