Iris Tonies

The soul of ceramics

• Iris was trained as a visual artist and designer
• Her studio is powered on solar energy
• She has collaborated with Rossana Orlandi and Piet Hein Eek

Native Dutch ceramicist Iris Tonies has always been a creative soul. If asked she is unable to recall a single day when she was not immersed in the process of developing ideas in an artistic way. Iris defines herself as a “ceramicist who bridges past and present, translating rituals into design.” Her spiritual approach creates a deep connection both with the material she is transforming and with her customers, in a stimulating co-creation process where each piece tells a unique story of shared and enduring meaning. Iris' handmade creations include large scale ceramic projects, ceramic tiles for walls and a wide array of tableware. She has collaborated with international galleries and designers, for the design of shows and site-specific installations.

Interview

©Ramiro_Elena

©alvarovaldecantos

What do you love most about your profession?

I would say the creation process and the hours I spend in peace and alone in my studio. I also cherish a connection to both tradition and modernity, which allows me for instance to take cultural elements of Spain and Catalonia and reshape them within a contemporary context.

What are your skills?

My work centres on translating rituals into design and infusing an emotional value into the materials I use. Furthermore, I pride myself in co-creating meaning with my customers, ensuring that the pieces I craft resonate with their individual narratives and feelings.

What are your sources of inspiration?

My inspiration is deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of tribal designs, encompassing traditions and stories that have survived over time. I find this very powerful. At the same time, the intricacies of handmade ceramics resonate with me, revealing endless shapes and textures.

Do you have any advice for young artisans?

I have been a teacher for several years and mentored several young ceramicists. My main advice would be to have a clear identity for their own roots and to respect tradition, albeit keeping an open heart towards the ever-evolving world of design. Learn who you are and always study.

Iris Tonies is a master artisan: she began her career in 2010 and she started teaching in 2007

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