Ute Kathrin Beck

Ceramicist

©Susanne Palme Waldemer

©Frank Kleinbach

Where fantasy meets humour

Ute Kathrin uses ceramics as a way of expression
She received the Baden-Wuerttemberg State Prize in 2012 and was nominated again in 2020
All her objects make a statement, interpreting themes of popular culture

Ute Kathrin Beck’s imaginative ceramic vessels strike through the interplay of form and sculptural ornamentation. Her works are an expression of freedom, referencing the theme of the vessel but surpassing its limitations through vividness and materiality to evoke a multitude of associations in the eye of the beholder. The tripods, for which she received the Baden-Wuerttemberg State Prize in 2012, are reminiscent of the shapes of primeval sea dwellers, while her new series Glamour and Glimmer refers to baroque splendour. In the work of Ute Kathrin Beck a playful fascination for the dialogue between form and historical reference is apparent. Thus, utility vessels become cult objects, evoking archaic myths. They always take a provocative stance and therefore inevitably inspire.

Interview

©Lilian Hössle

Are you still as passionate about your profession after 30 years?: It is fascinating that after all these years it does not feel like work, but like an integral part of my life. I go to my workshop in the morning and not “to work”, I don't count the days until vacation. For that I am very happy, it has a lot to do with freedom and keeps me young.
What do you mean by “Integral part of your life”?: Ceramics is a means of expression for me. Many things that move me, touch me, annoy me, delight me, are processed in my work with ceramics. They often contain social, sometimes political statements, sometimes obvious, sometimes ambiguous, often ironic.
Do all your works contain a certain statement?: Yes, actually all my objects contain statements, but most of them still keep their function. It is about playing with associations, to irritate and inspire at the same time. Fantasy and humour are very important to me.
Why did you change style in 2012?: Since I moved from Bavaria back to Stuttgart, I do not use a potter’s wheel anymore. All my vessels are freely constructed by hand. The technique itself has something very archaic, which I like very much.

Ute Kathrin Beck is a master artisan: she began her career in 1986 and she started teaching in 1996