When did you know that you wanted to become a ceramicist?
When I was 18, I went on a one-year preparation school, where most of my time was spent in the clay workshop and with the local potter. Working with clay, I felt my curiosity rise because I could indulge in endless shape and glaze experiments.
Why is nature an ongoing source of inspiration?
Nature never ceases to amaze. Change is the constant of nature as the seasons shift. Wherever you are in the world, nature is different. I discover new flowers and leaves that I use as motifs. Even though I live in a big city, I often seek peaceful surroundings at the weekends and during holidays to find peace, quiet and inspiration.
© Kirstine Mengel
Why are you fascinated with functional objects?
Functional, handmade and beautiful objects create joy in everyday life. I love to pass that trinity on to others. It is satisfying to bring other people a tiny portion of spiritual feeding and aesthetic into their homes.
Why is the handmade expression important?
People must see and know that the products are not produced by machine, but by hand in my studio and therefore not wholly alike. The handmade dimension adds character and personality to each product, and I am convinced you feel it when the products are in use.