Arvika-born artist and ceramist Kristine Thenman is exhibiting her intriguing work at Sweden’s oldest ceramics co-op, Kaolin. Descending from a region strongly linked to its arts and crafts tradition as well as to the iron infused soil used to make the archetypical clay, her foray in the world of clay started early in life. Some of her work can be seen at Kaolin starting mid-March through mid-April.
How did you find yourself choosing ceramics as a career path?
It happened at a fairly young age. Right after graduating secondary school, I decided to become a professional ceramicist and enrolled at Kunsthögskolen in Bergen, Norway, where I got a bachelor’s degree in ceramics. I then decided to move back to Sweden to go to school at Högskolan för Design och Konsthantverk in Gothenburg where, in 2007, I obtained my Master’s degree.
What’s on display at the Kaolin exhibition?
You’ll find a number of sculptural shapes, meant to be wall hung. I call it “wall jewellery” as I have found inspiration in folkloric and ornamental shapes and patterns.
Your work is often referred to as humorous and down to earth, why is that?
Nature and the image of nature is the constant in my work. The realm of my design process can be explained as “folk art meets Bamse”. Elements from old woodcarvings are mixed with patterns from my grandmother’s living room rug. The given impression is nostalgic, but the playful use of the material in surprising combinations makes it contemporary. Oftentimes I pick up different flea market finds to set a technical, conceptual and framework for the design. To enhance the inherent qualities of the clay, I often skip glazing in favour of other materials to create highlights and contrasts.
Why is there an increasing interest in arts and crafts these days?
I would say that the digital world of today makes us long for handmade authenticity, objects with their own identity. This is catered to through handmade items.
After a number of small exhibitions, I’m ready to tackle bigger projects. I want to get out there into public spaces.
