Maya Baratashvili

Unicorn Ceramics

Ceramicist

©Ana Boko

Surrealist ceramic art

Maya works with hand-building and clay-trimming techniques
She explores the synthesis of ancient and contemporary
She is inspired by the works of Giorgio de Chirico and Giorgio Morandi

Maya Baratashvili developed an interest in sculpture during her student years, but it wasn’t until 2013, when the prominent Georgian ceramist Gigisha Pachkoria introduced her to the craft, that her love of ceramics was born. After acquiring her MA in Fine Arts, she continued her studies in Germany, before receiving valuable experience in casting at a workshop in Paris. “I still consider myself a self-taught ceramicist, as I graduated from the Faculty of Fine Arts, at the Tbilisi State Academy of Arts, with an MA in Painting. I have since developed my skills and learnt ceramic techniques through the internet and online masterclasses” says the artist. The most important part of her work is hand-building and clay-trimming, as it makes the process adventurous and interesting for her. “The moment of trimming the clay helps me to achieve amazing textures on the surface. I like to play with contrasts – the simplicity of shapes and small details of décor, as well as merging ancient motives with the contemporary” – she says.

Interview

©Ana Boko

©Ana Boko

Why did you choose this career?: I’d always had a desire to experiment with three dimensional shapes. I started with sculpture, but swiftly shifted to clay, and it turned out to be amazingly therapeutic during the hard times of my life. As time passed, I realised that I wanted to dedicate my life to ceramics, which I have done since 2013.
What are your sources of inspiration?: Like any artist, I draw my inspiration from the surrounding environment. My main influences are from world architecture, my favourite artists and Georgian religious objects. Some of my works are influenced by specific artists, such as the surrealists Giorgio de Chirico and Giorgio Morandi.
What does well made mean to you?: The work should be solid and resistant. Each side of the object should be equally finished, symmetrical and refined. A work created even 20 years ago will always be relevant if the artist doesn’t try to keep up with trends but instead follows their inner voice. If the work is fashionable, it means somebody has already thought it up. Let’s do something different!
What do you advise young people who want to follow in your footsteps?: If you’re not prepared for hard work, don't bother! This career requires immense love and persistence, as well as hard graft. Those who want to pursue it should first learn something of the history of art: go and visit museums. And don’t try to keep up with ever-changing trends!

Maya Baratashvili is a rising star: she began her career in 2016 and she started teaching in 2017