Veronika Švábeníková

Ceramicist

©Adam Dvorak

©Alena Krepelkova

A colourful universe

Veronika originally wanted to be a painter
She uses a special marbling effect
Her works are inspired by natural forms

The vases of Veronika Švábeníková combine something essentially terrestrial and impressively extraterrestrial. The patterns resemble nebulas in the far universe but feel familiar at the same time. At least for those who know the lively pond flora or colourful structures of rocks and minerals. Veronika's works seem to be related to the beginnings of Earth. It's probably due to her work with fundamental elements. The clay creates the body, the fire gives it birth and the water gives it a voice. "My technique is based on the mechanical transfer of a pattern from the water surface to an object. And I aim to avoid industrial colourings and glazes, so I make them myself." Veronika's approach results in timeless objects with distinctive charisma.

Interview

©Alena Krepelkova

©Alena Krepelkova

What special technique do you use?: I've been developing one since 2018. I call it marbling. I found inspiration in ancient techniques that use the water surface to get the pattern. I adapted it to ceramic production, and I keep experimenting with it.
What made you develop it?: I wanted to find a way to decorate the vases that is not as time-consuming as painting or as expensive as a digital design. After many unsuccessful tries, this came up. It requires a deep knowledge of technologies.
How do you make your own colourings?: I mix the colours from raw materials, and there are many fails behind the result. But that's what I love about my work. The adrenalin boost before opening the kiln, when the result of my experiment is about to be revealed.
Do failures demotivate you?: On the contrary. I remember making the first piece in my own workshop. The object resulted in something very different than I wished for. The disappointment was huge. But it kickstarted my motivation to try again and study more.

Veronika Švábeníková is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2011