Jan Ernst

Ceramicist | Cape Town, South Africa

A close observation of nature

Jan's works range from installations and sculptures to furniture pieces
He holds a degree in architecture from Nelson Mandela University
He explores other materials while preparing drafts of his completed ceramic works

Jan Ernst started his studies in architecture but quickly switched to art school, where he explored painting, sculpture, graphic design and photography. He later returned to architecture to complete his degree and earned a master’s in Barcelona at Ramon Llull University. "I worked in architecture for a time, but it left me craving more creativity and freedom. I found my true path during the COVID pandemic," recounts Jan. Through his partner, a ceramicist, he discovered clay and began developing his own artistic practice. Today, Jan's collections and commission work express his architectural precision and emotional sensitivity, translating landscapes, textures and memories into clay forms. He showcased his work at the PAN Amsterdam fair in 2022 with the Flux collection, which draws inspiration from the natural elements of Cape Town.

Interview

©Suly Kuhn

©Jan Ernst

What is your academic background?: My journey started with architecture, but I realised that my heart was in art, and I went to an art school to explore creative disciplines. Eventually I circled back to architecture to finally find my true calling as a ceramicist.
What do you enjoy most in your work process?: I enter a meditative state in the initial phase. I spend time in nature, sitting and observing without drawing. I collect objects, take photographs and record videos. Then my architect’s side emerges to digest every detail and bring a structured approach, just like in an architectural project.
Where do you find inspiration?: My inspiration comes from the landscapes of my childhood, natural textures, and from the observation of how light falls or how water reflects colours. I also collect all sorts of objects that can inspire my creations, such as animal bones, pieces of wood and so on.
Do you have any advice for someone starting out in this craft?: There needs to be a story behind your craft. People do not want to buy an object, they want to buy the story, the emotion, the culture that come with it.

Jan Ernst is a rising star: he began his career in 2020 and he started teaching in 2021