Caterina Roma

Ceramicist

©Valentina Alvarado

The nature of ceramics

Caterina is self-taught, through experimentation
She sources her clay and other raw materials locally
Her hand-made dinnerware is used by Michelin star chefs and interior designers

Studies in literature and philology did not prevent Caterina Roma from nurturing her passion for ceramics. Self-taught from a very young age, this process has given her “a rare freedom to create by intuition and observation.” Following her instinct, she has been exploring the endless possibilities – as well as the limits – that both materials and techniques allow. She has carried out a very personal, artistic research. The shapes of her creations are inspired by nature and tradition, Caterina digs her own clay, soaks and kneads it, collects plants and rocks which she will then incorporate into the glazing, firing her works also in a wood-kiln. Her connection with nature is tangible, balanced between poetry and function.

Interview

©Valentina Alvarado

©Valentina Alvarado

When did ceramics become part of your life?: My academic studies and professional career always went hand in hand with experimenting with ceramic techniques. In 2011, I set up a ceramic studio for design, production and sales, both of unique pieces (wood- fired and made with self-collected clay) and dinnerware (electric kiln, porcelain and stoneware).
How would you describe your creations?: They sit in between artistic and functional, I think about them as nature’s elements – transformed into ceramic items for daily use. In 2015, I created Trepat, my own dinnerware brand, which was inspired by wild clay and porcelain. And then there are the one-off pieces, which are more artistic creations – nature-centred and wood-fired.
What is the role of clay and tradition in your creative process?: My studio is located in an 18th century house next to the Gala-Dalí Museum, the area is rich in clay and it’s well known for its tradition in ceramics. This is why I started to collect local clays and other natural raw materials, to be consistent with the identity of the place and to make a statement about my inner connection with nature.
Do you have a mission?: I feel I do – it is to inspire people through functional objects that are used in daily life. I long for the appreciation of timeless pieces that have a personality and authenticity, becoming part of someone’s life, leaving behind the disposable and industrial ones, dictated by temporary fads.

Caterina Roma is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2010