Rafaela Pareja Ribera

Ceramicist

©Carlos Laullón

©Javier Marina

Porcelain games of light and shadow

Rafaela is inspired by nature and the cosmos
In her work, she mixes different materials with porcelain
She is fascinated by the effect of light and shadow

Inspired by her observation of nature and the wider cosmos, Rafaela Pareja's works have a delicate dream-like identity. Esteemed by collectors and institutions far and near, Rafaela's sculptures have been exhibited and awarded in Spain and abroad. "My sculptures are an example of contemporary organic ceramics," she says, describing her personal interpretation of the elements of earth, water, and fire. Her focus is on white porcelain and the study of shapes, enclosing the space and playing with the hollow. Allowing ideas to flow naturally, or become encapsulated within an object, in her process she sometimes uses porcelain to cover other structures. Rafaela’s artistic project is made of different series, each of which captures a specific theme, challenges her fantasy and explores the endless possibilities that ceramics offer.

Interview

©Javier Marina

©Javier Marina

Why did you become a ceramicist?: I fell in love with the material itself, because of its qualities and versatility. After so many years I am still amazed by its power of transformation and how, thanks to your hands, you can let creativity run free with shapes and experimentation.
Is there a special connection with Valencia in your approach?: The light. Valencia is a city that has a very special light. The effect of natural light creating shadows intrigues me, and in my sculptures I like to re-create this effect. Employing translucent porcelain allows me to achieve plays of light and shadow in my work.
What techniques do you use to make your sculptures?: I like to experiment and diversify. Sometimes I source existing objects like globes, use clay mixed with minced paper and then dip into liquid porcelain. Other times, I use the coiling technique. I make the shapes and then pierce them. And finally, I also make sculptures in solid clay.
After so many years, what still surprises you?: Making ceramics is a risky business! You never know what the outcome of a piece will be, and what it will look like after firing. This is what I like the most: the feeling of freedom. I do not like to control, I like to be surprised.

Rafaela Pareja Ribera is a master artisan: she began her career in 1984 and she started teaching in 1989