Gloria Di Modica

Artefice Atelier

Ceramicist

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From Sicily with love

Gloria works with her husband Emanuele
They founded Artefice Atelier in 2008
She is also a professional painter

Gloria Di Modica started her career as a painter after graduating at the Fine Arts Academy in Rome. But, over time, she has became a multi-skilled artisan. Today, she is a ceramicist and a sculptor, too, and her next step is to become a jewelry maker. "I’m so curious about new crafts and techniques," she admits, "and I’m always seeking to learn and try new things." After studying, she met her husband, Emanuele, and they decided to found Artefice Atelier in Sicily. At first, they established a small workshop in Modica, but later their business was so successful they had to move to Ragusa, where they found a bigger and more comfortable place. Today, they produce unique artworks which are distributed in many shops throughout Sicily and in important shops in France and in the United States.

Interview

Is craftsmanship your only passion?
My primary activity is craftsmanship, but in the art world the research should be tireless. I take part in various contests and I have won prizes and distinctions in some important international art competitions. I received an award from the curator of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
What’s your next challenge?
I’m very attracted to the world of jewellery. I love the idea of melting precious metals, such as gold and silver. I have already experimented with this process, melting different materials, such as copper and mother of pearl inside ceramics.
Why are you so connected with ceramics?
Here in Sicily every art object is based on ceramics: we have one of the most ancient pottery traditions in the world. When you touch the clay, a magic is created: the material rules, you can just try to handle it.
What is the greatest defect in ceramics?
If you work with clay, you must always have a very sensitive approach. You can’t handle the material if you are angry or nervous: if you can’t hold back your emotions and your strength, you could break everything.

Gloria Di Modica is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2008