When did you first come across ceramics?
When I was 15 years old, I witnessed the production of a teapot and vase for the first time. To me, it was unbelievable that you can make vessels from a lump of clay in just a few minutes. Several hand movements, finger pushing once or twice and a wonderful, organic shape is born.
Did you decide then it would be your career path?
It was a gradual process. And fate, I think. Bechyně, the town of my birth, is considered the centre of ceramics in Czechia. The local ceramic high school has a 100 year tradition. Also, my family pushed me forward, as well as my first successes.
© Roman Sedina
Do you teach your craft?
Yes, it came full circle. I motivate young apprentices to do this beautiful craft, the oldest one in the world. In 2016 I also started the Live Life initiative to support and promote ceramics. Touching clay is calming; it's considered an art therapy.
What attributes do you need to succeed?
You must be tenacious. It takes a lot of time and concentration to create a single piece. But it's worth it. I make my dreams come true, putting my emotions, ideas and perception of natural beauty into the objects. In my case, it's certainly an obsession.