Guy Van Leemput

Ceramicist

©Stef Van Leemput

©Dirk Theys

Mindful creation

Guy studied both mathematics and ceramics
He is fascinated by the shape of the bowl
Creating one of his bowls can take up to a month

“For me working with clay is yoga for the mind” says Guy Van Leemput about his craft and the peace he finds within when practising it. Enjoying the slow process of creation and time-consuming techniques is a way of forgetting the daily sorrows, letting the rhythm of his breath guide him. Ceramics was almost a calling to Guy, who started studying it over the summer as a teenager. His first teacher was a local ceramicist, Geert Van der Borght, and later he attended the Academy of Fine Art of Herentals specialising in ceramics and sculpture. Today, Guy is recognized for his wafer-thin, wood-fired porcelain bowls that he creates using a balloon. This technique requires delicacy and patience, as only a small part of material can be added each day; the final result can easily take up to a month.

Interview

©Dirk Theys

©Katrien Hautekiet

Why did you choose this craft?: For me ceramics is more than a choice, it is difficult to know why it attracts me so. Perhaps it is about taking risks and letting go, hoping the kiln will do its best, perhaps it is about earth and fire, simple and complex. Anyway the ‘ceramic world’ will stay my first love forever.
How do you express tradition in your work?: I always come back to the bowl shape. It has played a major role in the history of mankind, and in ceramics beautiful examples have been made. Yet, there is still so much to discover. I like the simplicity of the form and the suggestion of emptiness. I hope to contribute to this great tradition.
What is a memorable moment in your career?: I am proud of my bronze medal at the Mino ceramics competition, one of the world’s biggest ceramic festivals. My work Big Anas was chosen by the jury out of 2579 entries from 60 countries. It is now in the collection of the Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu, Japan.
What is your advice to aspiring ceramicists?: When teaching future ceramicists, I always tell them to search for silence: there they can listen to their heart. Only when following their own voice will the making give full satisfaction. I would also advise them to surround themselves with objects and things of beauty.

Guy Van Leemput is a master artisan: he began his career in 2008 and he started teaching in 2015