Giovanni Mengoni

Ceramicist

©Laila Pozzo per DoppiaFirma

©Roberto Vaccai

©Giovanni Mengoni

Reviving an Etruscan tradition

Giovanni lives and works in Umbria
He masters the art of bucchero ceramics
His creations combine tradition and innovation

The black, soft, light and fine ceramic was used by the Etruscans to make vases from the second quarter of the 7th century B.C. to the first half of the 5th B.C. The art of bucchero pottery is therefore very antique. In ancient times, Umbria was part of Etruria, absorbing much of its art experience. Surrounded by such heritage, Giovanni draws inspiration from the past by reviving ancient techniques with a contemporary vision. Reinterpreting with a modern eye, Giovanni uses bucchero to shape modern objects with an antique taste. The result is unique pieces of furniture and design, that merge tradition with innovation, from table lamps to tableware, his creations are diverse, some minimalist and inspired by nature, some traditional.

Interview

©Giovanni Mengoni

©Giovanni Mengoni

How is your art linked to your region?: I was born and I’ve always lived in Umbria, a region located in centre of Italy. Here artistic methods and craftsmanship have been handed down for centuries. I shape the traditional maiolica and terracotta, which is very linked to the surroundings.
Where does the passion for ceramics come from?: I’ve always been a ceramicist, as I used to attend workshops. What I like most is the act of shaping the material. When I see the object coming out from my hands, I feel great. I shape rather than decorate. The object is decoration in itself, it doesn’t need more.
How do you combine tradition with innovation?: I’m influenced by an ancient material and an ancient technique. But before shaping, I create 3D models and similar modern techniques. Although the final object is handmade using age-old methods, it has a contemporary shape and aesthetic.
Do you perceive your craft as endangered?: Working in schools, I realise that art and craft is not considered a necessary subject. It’s a pity, we come from that world. Skills are few, as well as the facilities that allow practising them, such as art workshops.

Giovanni Mengoni is a master artisan: he began his career in 1997 and he started teaching in 2000