Karen Swami I BR 13
- Lenght (cm):41.0
- Height (cm)52.0
- Width (cm):
- Ceramic
- One of a kind
Karen Swami Ceramic Art – Touareg Series – Wheelthrown Stoneware, Smoke Fired, One of a Kind. Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Karen Swami ceramics, where the mastery of matter, oxides, and flames comes together to create unique works of art. Specializing in sandstone and earthenware, Karen Swami pushes the boundaries of traditional pottery techniques, refining shapes and enhancing colors to create contemporary ceramic art that is both fragile and powerful. Inspired by the timeless beauty of Etruscan vases, Karen Swami’s work reinterprets ancient forms with sumptuous curves and modern contemporary lines, making each piece a stunning decorative addition to any space. The Touareg series features wheelthrown stoneware, expertly smoke fired to bring out rich textures and tones, resulting in one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces. Crafted for decorative purposes only, Karen Swami’s ceramic art pieces are more than just functional—they are true works of art, perfect for collectors and lovers of unique handmade pottery. Elevate your home or collection with the beauty of Karen Swami's smoke-fired ceramics today.
Karen Swami, Contemporary French Ceramicist
Karen Swami is an acclaimed French ceramic artist known for her minimalist, sculptural vessels and refined surface textures. Blending contemporary ceramic art with ancient pottery traditions, Swami’s work has gained international recognition among art collectors, galleries, and design professionals.
The name Swami—derived phonetically from her maiden name, Souhami—also references the Sanskrit word for spiritual teacher, underscoring the meditative, intentional nature of her practice. Based between Paris and Brittany, Swami creates handmade ceramics that reflect deep respect for natural materials and the transformative processes of fire and earth.
Inspirations and Influences
Swami draws inspiration from ancient Egyptian Nagada pottery, Japanese ceramics, and Hellenistic forms, as well as the work of celebrated contemporaries like Alev Ebüzziya Siesbye and Magdalene Odundo. Her ceramic vessels echo the timeless elegance of traditional forms while embracing modern interpretations of texture, imperfection, and material depth.
A Journey into Ceramics
Although fascinated by clay since childhood, it was in 2009 that Swami fully committed to ceramics, earning her professional pottery certification in 2010. She has since developed a distinctive style that integrates time-honored ceramic techniques with experimental surface treatments, reflecting a constant pursuit of mastery and innovation in her craft.
Signature Style and Techniques
Swami’s ceramic work is defined by natural textures, organic forms, and earth-toned glazes—from cobalt blues to celadon greens. Her unique finishing process includes:
- Hand-burnishing with agate stones
- Bisque firing and smoke-firing
- Waxing and surface reworking
- Incorporation of Japanese Kintsugi using Urushi lacquer and pure gold
These processes result in richly layered, tactile surfaces that celebrate wabi-sabi aesthetics—the beauty of imperfection and impermanence.
Contemporary Ceramic Art with Global Roots
By blending Asian ceramic aesthetics, Mediterranean antiquity, and modern European design, Karen Swami creates pieces that are timeless, soulful, and grounded in cultural heritage. Kare Swami works are part of numeral art collections in the world.
Unique and qualitative contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, outdoor sculptures and vintage furniture selected by Alexia Werrie.
Enhance your collection with the expertise of Art Advisor Alexia Werrie. Let her help you find the perfect artworks that reflect your style and vision.
