Fernando Garcés

Ceramicist

©Andrea Tenorio Garrido

Rising to the challenge of clay

The pottery wheel is the key element of Fernando's work
He mainly uses stoneware and porcelain
His pieces have been exhibited in national and international museums

Fernando Garcés is a professor and an artisan. The leitmotif of his life is his total devotion to, and passion for, ceramics. Always committed to the value of tradition in his craft, while aiming to give it a contemporary feel, Fernando’s work comprises researching and teaching, working in his workshop, throwing and shaping his vision. A master of different techniques, he aims to enhance the core of each ceramic paste and its features, conduct glazing and firing with an eye to sustainability, and control temperatures and emissions. Tradition is key to his work, reflected in his recurrent use of gold, based on the Hispanic-Moresque lusterware. His aesthetic revolves around pure lines and clean forms, with each piece given a personal touch.

Interview

©Andrea Tenorio Garrido

©Andrea Tenorio Garrido

What inspires you?: I am very conscious of my roots. I come from Aragón, an area of Spain where the Mudéjar influence permeates architecture, art and the spirit of people. I also count the white Chinese porcelain of the Song dynasty as an inspiration, due to their formal construction and the finishing of the glazing.
Why did you choose this career?: I quickly discovered the pleasure of throwing different kinds of clay. The whole process has always fascinated me, in particular the power of material transformation in the kiln, its endless possibilities, and the feeling of better understanding the world of art thanks to what I'm shaping with my hands.
When is a piece well made, for you?: There has to be a balance between aesthetic and technique, the concept and function of each piece, to allow it to convey a message, evoke memories and reveal the hand behind it. The craftsman’s role in creating a well made item is to be able to adapt it to current times and the needs of his client.
How important is teaching to you?: This is a marvellous craft, always evolving and posing challenges, forcing you to exchange ideas and appreciate what others do. I have been a professor at the Escuela de Arte de Talavera de la Reina since 1991. My role is to train ceramicists, teaching them the value of tradition and innovation.

Fernando Garcés is a master artisan: he began his career in 1991 and he started teaching in 1991