Elena Vasilantonaki

Ceramicist | Athens, Greece

A heartfelt ceramic practice

Clay is Elena’s medium for self discovery and healing
Her ceramic objects carry a sense of timelessness
Teaching her craft enhances her own learning experience

By exploring materials and surfaces, Elena Vasilantonaki aims to give traditional shapes a distinctive, unique expression in clay. Before launching her own studio, she trained with two master artisans, Janet Lines and Menandros Papadopoulos, who greatly influenced her in both technique and the way she relates to clay. “Beyond our focus on hand building or working with high quality stoneware clays, we approached ceramics as a medium for expressing thoughts, feelings and beliefs,” she explains. Ceramics thus became an integral part of her personal growth. Elena's creations today draw inspiration from both history and nature. Their forms are influenced by ancient functional ceramics, while their textures often echo natural elements such as sea rocks.

Interview

©George Kladis

Do you remember the first time you discovered clay?: I was given a ceramic plate to draw on during a painting workshop. That moment piqued my curiosity and sparked a flood of questions. I realised that the objects I had admired in museums, as well as the traditional pitharia jars found in Greek homes, are all made with clay. Until then, I had never had the chance to touch it.
What was a pivotal moment in your journey as an artisan?: Hosting workshops has allowed me to open up in a new way. Working with clay had long been a deeply personal and sometimes solitary practice, which I valued greatly. But opening my studio marked a turning point, as I felt ready to share my knowledge and passion.
Is the environment a key consideration in your process?: Yes. In my practice, I rarely use glazes, often preferring to work with the natural character of clay and its textures. Yet, the firing process makes me reflect on energy use and my relationship with the environment. For me, my practice is all about working with awareness and simplicity, and finding ways to create that feel aligned with nature.
What challenges could this craft face in the future?: It might be difficult to pass on techniques and knowledge. I was trained through workshops and mentorship, not in a formal school, and I know how precious that direct experience was. Through my own workshops, I try to keep that spirit alive by creating a space where curiosity, experimentation and personal expression can grow.

Elena Vasilantonaki is a rising star: she began her career in 2020 and she started teaching in 2025