Ann Van Hoey

Ceramicist

©Ann Van Hoey

A life-changing journey in clay

Ann is inspired by modernism, minimalism and geometry
She is a member of the International Academy of Ceramics
In 2018 she was a finalist in the Loewe Craft Prize

For most people, turning 50 is a milestone experience. In the case of Ann Van Hoey, it also brought a total life change, because she started a new career as a craftswoman and artist. “For my 50th birthday, in 2006, I decided to try to become a professional ceramicist. My plan was to apply for the big international biennials and see what would happen. It has become an amazing journey: sometimes I still can’t believe it myself!” After graduating in ceramics from the Institute for Arts and Craft in Mechelen, Belgium, she opened her own studio. Only two years after, her work Etude Géometrique was selected for the International Biennal of Contemporary Ceramics, Vallauris, France. Ann was awarded with the rank of Commander in the Order of the Crown by King Philippe of Belgium for her achievements in ceramics.

Interview

©Ann Van Hoey

©Ann Van Hoey

Did you expect to have such immediate success?: Not at all. During the following years, I participated in many shows and was selected for a number of prizes. An even more unexpected outcome was that the Belgian design company Serax asked me to work for them on a freelance basis, the start of a still lasting cooperation.
What do you love most about your profession?: Working in my studio, hands in the clay. This profession really changed my life. It opened new doors. I get invitations from all over the world for residencies, demonstrations, exhibitions… it’s an incredibly enriching experience. I am very grateful that all this is happening.
Do you use any specific techniques?: I make unique vessels with a technique that I figured out myself, through a process of trial and error. Part of the success in the international biennales is due to the fact that often the jury can’t figure out how I make my pieces.
What does the notion of 'well made' mean to you?: Paying attention to the little details. I spend much more time in finishing little details than in making the shape. 'Well made' also means avoiding deformation of the piece during the drying and the firing processes: I am not looking for unexpected results.

Ann Van Hoey is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2006