Tom Von Kaenel

Kalodromo

Marble worker

©n.a.s. photography

From Switzerland to Naxos

Tom has more than 30 years of experience
He opened his workshop, Kalodromo, in 2016
He creates objects, vessels and sculptures with Naxian marble

Tom von Kaenel is a Swiss-born painter and sculptor who experimented a lot when he was young with different materials. After his twenties, he began working with granite because this stone was available in Switzerland. In 2016 he moved with his wife to the Greek island of Naxos. That’s where he founded his workshop, Kalodromo, which means "good way" and started creating objects inspired by the Cycladic history and territory. Tom works predominantly with marble which is abundant in Naxos but also with clay, assemblages, collages and oil paints. One thing he loves about his craft is “the surprising moment when a form comes out of the material without any thoughts.” What most people don’t know about his work is that he works very fast because he feels the need to bring as many objects as possible into today’s world.

Interview

©n.a.s. photography

©n.a.s. photography

Did you learn your craft from a master?: I never had a mentor but I remember that in my neighbourhood there was a painter. His painting technique was abstract. I was impressed not only by his work but also by his strong personality in combination with his kindness.
Why did you choose this career path?: When my wife and I moved to Greece in 2016, we were dreaming of a life in nature, away from the city. As I needed to express creativity, the idea of making functional vessels came naturally, since Naxos is blessed with marble quarries.
How is your craft linked to your homeland?: My work is influenced by Greece, our surroundings, the garden, the nature, the powerful history of the Cyclades. On the other hand, I get inspired by other artists, especially by American ceramicists such as Hans Coper.
What else inspires you?: Ceramics from the ‘60s and contemporary pieces, Bauhaus, Minoan culture, my cactus garden in front of our house, Japanese culture, Carlo Scarpa, Noguchi, and last but not least, I am inspired by Brancusi.

Tom Von Kaenel is an expert artisan: he began his career in 1981