Over thirty years of family tradition of black on black ceramics making...

Artist’s Statement 

 

I love art and ceramics, working with clay is a creative process

and feels like being part of an ancient tradition.

Black on black ceramics are one of the earliest types of pottery making.

The pieces can be either hand built or wheel thrown, air dried, then the various designs polished onto the oil-water treated surface with a simple river rock. The final step is the carefully executed reduction firing process to achieve the black color. For best results I use a gas  kiln that provides me with the most controllable atmosphere as opposed to pit firing used in many cultures around the world.

I love to see how a slab of clay turns into meaningful work of art in the process. Majority of my work is functional, however my latest goal is to create one of a kind ceramics that suggest individuality, self-expression and connect with the viewer-user in some special, symbolic way. To achieve this I craft classic and natural-organic forms, ornamented with representational motifs and texture.

The drama and elegance of black completes and supports the significance of form and design.

My inspiration comes from tradition, nature and family that I am grateful to have and blessed with!

I hope owning my work or giving it as a gift, will bring you as much joy as creating them brings to me.

Current repertoire features the Labyrinth, Waves, Folk Art, Nature,Southwestern and Tree of Life Collections by the artist.

One of a kind pieces and custom orders are also available.

I always appreciate your feedback; let me know what you think.

 

Sincerely,

Krisztina K. Skrabonja

At Work

By simple firing the pots would turn red. The black color and the dramatic contrast of dull and shiny surfaces are achieved by smoking the items at the same time. It's done in a custom built gas kiln where sawdust is placed into the flame compartment to create the fumes.

My vessels are functional, their insides are sealed therefore displaying flowers is and additional way to appreciate the beauty and elegance of black on black ceramics. Other creations with a matte  surface have to avoid water contact.

Caring for your black on black ceramics pieces is important. Protect the surface from scratching or moisture; wipe the pieces with a damp or soft cloth. 


The following pages feature selected functional and decorative pieces of the artist's portfolio. For viewing and purchasing these works you may visit the events listed at the Show Schedule page or by contacting the artist directly.

For questions and custom orders email Krisztina K. Skrabonja to kskrabonja@tradeoftheart.com or call  646-251-2827

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