Walter Usai

Ceramicist | Assemini, Italy

Recommended by

Ivano Atzori

The colourful wheel of life

Walter uses traditions passed down by his ancestors
His work celebrates Sardinian heritage
He specialises in making ceramics on the lathe

To create his colourful ceramics, Walter Usai follows the waning tradition that’s been in his family for over 150 years. He loves using colour – the brighter the better – and collaborating with others to create original objects that are connected to Sardinia’s vibrant history. Walter began learning his craft from his father at an early age. Mastering all the techniques of the lathe, he is afraid that his life’s work, which has existed for a millennium, is destined to disappear. Regardless of the future, Walter gets great satisfaction from his trade, which to learn requires consistency, patience, and above all, humility.

Interview

What was the first thing you made?: The first thing I made on a potter’s lathe was a “Scivedda” - a Sardinian container used to hold bread and pastries. I learned everything there was to learn from my father and am proud to continue a family tradition that dates back to 1840. Today I specialise in making ceramics on the lathe.
What role does tradition play in your work?: All my work as a ceramicist is linked to the customs and history of the island. Each piece is inspired by traditional Sardinian ceramics, but thanks to innovations and collaborations with architects and designers we can make original objects, each different from the other.
What do you like most about your craft?: I love opening the oven and seeing my creations shining with color. For me, this work lets you turn your imagination into something concrete. It’s an ancient craft yet remains original and alive.
Do you think this is a dying craft?: Unfortunately, I think it is destined to disappear. New generations aren’t interested in this profession even though it has existed for millennia. I get great satisfaction from my art, but to learn to make pottery, you need consistency, patience, and above all, humility.

Walter Usai is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2000 and he started teaching in 2020