Giannis Zois

Ceramicist | Athens, Greece

Recommended by

Benaki Museum

Communicating by form

Giannis studied at the ceramic school of Nikaia
Ceramics is a way of living and expressing himself
He has designed exclusive ceramic sets for the Benaki Museum Shop

Giannis Zois masters the art of ceramic, as he would describe it as a Greek common language. In his Athens-based studio, the ceramicist explores the technical limits of his craft, looking for the forms which communicate in the simplest way. The objects he creates underline the true essence of shape. He designs everyday items like teapot sets, bowls, vases, or even lamps. Throughout his training and the seminars he completed, Giannis was able to learn alongside three master artisans who had a real influence on him. It allowed him to develop his specific skills, notably in wheel throwing and ceramic chemistry. Giannis' approach to clay is instinctive, he experiments with the material led by his imagination.

Interview

©Giorgos Vitsaropoulos

©Giorgos Vitsaropoulos

Why did you choose this craft?: For the unique character of the material. The vastness of the craft in terms of the techniques gives it a magical character. It offers a chance to take something formless and transform it into something that exists only in your imagination. It is a craft that even if you had several lifetimes would never cease to amaze you.
When did you open your own workshop?: Nine years ago. At first it was a place to implement the knowledge I had already gained with the aim of experimenting with forms, glazes and decoration techniques. Now the ongoing challenge to create intrigues me the most. To find the ''language'' to communicate.
Do you master any specific techniques?: To describe yourself as a master is a very difficult thing. You need to be modest in this terminology regarding this craft. Most of my work revolves around wheel throwing and finding the boundaries of the material. I can say that I have an extensive skill set in wheel throwing and ceramic chemistry.
What would you advise an aspiring ceramicist?: To love what you are doing. In many ways it is a very frustrating craft. A lot can go wrong. It is more connected with destruction than with creation. You must be able to let go. As I said, a lot can go wrong, until you have the final object out of the kiln.

Giannis Zois is a master artisan: he began his career in 2013 and he started teaching in 2014