Inspirations & techniques for ceramics collections

In my designs, I focus on the perfect balance of function, glaze, and colour. I love experimenting with vibrant hues paired with softer, more muted tones to create bold, striking contrasts. My designs embrace simple, timeless patterns, usually minimal strokes or blocks of colour—that feel both contemporary and lasting. I believe great design combines both beauty and function, ensuring each piece stands the test of time.

The materials I choose are essential to the look and quality of my ceramics. I primarily use English terracotta and Earthstone clay. These clays offer the perfect balance of strength, durability, and beauty. The natural warmth of the red terracotta clay pairs beautifully with the bold glazes I apply, creating a rich contrast between earthy tones and vibrant colours. This combination gives my ceramics a unique, contemporary feel grounded in tradition.

Traditional Slovak wooden house with geometric white patterns, turquoise windows, and flowering garden in front.
Colorful floral and geometric embroidery on fabric, featuring green, purple, yellow, and blue designs.

Inspired by my Slovakian heritage, I draw endless creativity from traditional peasant ware. These objects fascinate me not just for their craftsmanship, but also for their practical use and the stories they tell about everyday life and culture.

While I deeply respect these traditional crafts, I believe they should evolve to stay relevant and inspire contemporary design. They are not meant to be mimicked in present or preserved in the past but adapted to suit current tastes and lifestyles. I see them as a valuable source of inspiration for creating modern, functional pieces that still honour their rich history.

My collection is primarily made up of slipcasted tableware, drinkware, and serveware, crafted with precision, mostly to order for wholesale and retail partnerships. I enjoy batch production, it's where the rhythm of repetition allows me to refine my craft and create consistent pieces.

However, I also crave to escape the routine. Once or twice a year, I step outside of production work to create one-off pieces centered around a specific theme or technique. This practice not only keeps the creative process exciting but also challenges me to experiment and think on a deeper level, pushing the boundaries of my own capabilities.

I love working in both ways, the focused energy of batch production and the freedom of individual pieces. The balance between them hopefully keeps my work fresh and helps me constantly evolve, explore new ideas, and stay engaged with my craft.

Colorful floral motifs with symmetrical designs on a white background, showcasing a variety of stylized flowers and plant forms.
Hand embroidered vest from vanjory

Every step of my process is carried out with care and attention. Whether I’m using press moulding, slip-casting, or slab building techniques, I focus on creating pieces that are light, strong, and finely crafted.

I fire my ceramics in electric kilns powered by renewable energy, reflecting my commitment to sustainability. By firing at 1185°C, I achieve both the strength and durability I desire while minimising energy consumption and reducing environmental impact.

Each ceramic piece I create reflects my dedication to quality, sustainability, and timeless design. I believe ceramics can connect us to history while enhancing our daily lives with thoughtful, functional pieces that are built to last.