b. 1934
Born: Jerusalem, Israel
Active ceramist: 62 years
Mentor: Richard Hirsch
Why Clay?
My first encounter with clay was in the studio of Hedwig Grossmann and Rudi Lehmann in Givataiim (Israel), in the1960ies. It was a temple to art and we, the students, were the novices. The total approach of these two people to art, the seriousness and commitment amazed me, captured me and changed my life. Following this, my studies at Bezalel Art Academy under Gedula Ogen were the continuation of that experience.
What do I want to convey?
It was clear in the 1960ies that there is an immediate link between working in ceramics and Zionism, the earth, the landscape, the history and the vision.
This was associated with simplicity and modesty, it revolted against bourgeois values and capitalism and signs of wealth, if in the meaning or in the shape. It also related to independence- female independence, female identity, female statements which dealt with the earth and also with higher values. In the 1960ies and also the 1970ies, working with ceramics was a dignified profession; a kind of realization and contribution to the Israeli life and culture.
What characterizes my work process?
The subject of the vessel in all its aspects is the main thing for me. Over the years I am mainly concerned with the container and its components, shape, shape in space, construct/proportions, inside-outside, texture, technique, function and so forth. In addition there are contents, responses and references to the personal and social reality, to nature, the landscapes and to the changes happening in this reality.
In many of my works I search for the hidden aspect. There is a strong link between the inner hidden space of the vessel and its back section which also has a hidden space.
My tools of choice… Can’t create without them:
Everything, all I have in the studio
Absolutely necessary in my working environment
Quiet, music, for it to be warm in winter and airy in summer
