Elena Aleksejeva

Ceramicist

©Gytis Imbrasas

©E. Aleksejeva

©Gytis Imbrasas

Learning from history

Elena overcame many obstacles to become a ceramicist
You can find traces of Neolithic pottery in her work
She combines ancient techniques with contemporary forms

Elena Aleksejeva always wanted to study ceramics, but it took her four times until she was accepted to the Vilnius Art Academy. Her stubborn perseverance eventually got her admitted and she has never looked back. Now, she works in her own studio, making various teapots, mugs, bowls and plates. Her absolute passion is ancient ceramics techniques, such as fermented pottery or raku ceramics. "During the time of our studies, we were taught the main principles of art, about contemporary ceramics but nobody told us about ancient techniques" says Elena. And this is exactly what interests her. For almost 20 years now, she has been doing archaic pottery camps in the yard of the Trakai History Museum with the Vilnius Pottery Guild, during which they delve into old technologies, from the Neolithic to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

Interview

©Gytis Imbrasas

©Gytis Imbrasas

What do you like most about ceramics?: I am attracted by the feel of clay, all the possibilities that can be made by touch. There are two types of people: those that are attracted to the feel of clay and those that are not. I clearly belong to the first category.
What is your source of inspiration?: I am inspired by many things, but most of all by ancient techniques of ceramics. I am fascinated by wood burning and Raku ceramics. In my works, you can clearly see the inspiration coming from the ceramics of the Middle Ages. I am fascinated by the beauty of Majolica pottery.
What is the relationship between tradition and innovation in your work?: In my work, tradition and innovation are very closely intertwined. I am convinced that the use of old techniques in ceramics gives a fantastic result. You can use ancient techniques to create contemporary objects.
What qualities are needed to be ceramicist?: It is really hard work. Above all, you need patience, diligence, discipline, and, of course, inspiration and technical mastery. And a lot of practice!

Elena Aleksejeva is a master artisan: she began her career in 1992 and she started teaching in 2003