A while back we stumbled over the exquisite work of Lukas Wegwerth online and started looking for more. Only a few articles can be found about him and his work – we would love to add more praise on his outstanding ceramics and hope you will be as enthusiastic about his vases as we are!
Images courtesy of gallery FUMI
Like many inventions the story of Crystals started by chance: wanting to repair a favorite teapot Lukas Wegwerth started researches and was inspired by the Japanese method Kintsugi of applying gold dust in the glue to purposely reveal the fissures in a broken vessel, and as such, elevating the object to a new status. In this case we are very happy that he is not the kind of guy, who throws away broken objects!
After a longer period of testing and experimenting he could establish a process where he is applying a special salt-based solution on the unglazed edges of his objects. By treating these broken vases with this chemical solution he is able to grow crystalline formations. The crystallization process underlies coincidental conditions, the colors can often show an unexpected effect, also Lukas Wegwerth tries to control the form of the crystals as much as possible – but it’s the momentum of the unplanned that converts his crafts into pieces of art.
His main focus is on the interplay of the natural and the artificial and he achieves this using the self organization inherent to crystal growth. With this technique every vase grows uniquely into a one-of-a-kind piece of art. We are blown away by the appearance, colors and textures of his ceramic pieces and the contrast of natural-artificial he creates. G, x
2 Responses
would love to know exactly how these crystals are fomed. A recipe would be great!!
Hi, I suggest you get in contact with the maker himself. He might give you more information. Thank you:)