Judit Esztergomi

I make wheel-thrown and press-moulded tableware from high-firing clays: functional and simple pots, which are meant to be used every day. Eating, drinking, sharing create the intimacy between the pot and its holder, and change the average into special. I consider myself an honest craftswoman: my pots lack deep philosophical thoughts, but they offer the joy and love with which I made them.

The shapes are light and comfortable to hold; it is very important how the pot sits in the hands, and how it relates to the food served in it. The simple forms together with the regularity of throwing provide the blank canvas for my patterns.

My decoration techniques all involve carving through or scraping back: this method of hiding away first and then slowly and meticulously revealing the pattern beneath is the strongest connection between my pots.

Inspiration comes from various sources: the heritage of my motherland, Hungary and its traditional folk pottery; the country’s hilly landscapes with their softly waving silhouettes, the wind as it blows the meadow grasses and flowers. My landscape architect background adds the love for regularity, order, intricate details and plants.