Karen Swami’s Exploration of Japanese Lacquer: A Modern Twist on Traditional Ceramic Art

While delving into the ancient art of Kintsugi with renowned expert Martine Rey, Karen Swami discovered the captivating principles of Japanese lacquer (urushi). This experience sparked a deep fascination with the transformative nature of materials, particularly the concept of embracing imperfections. Swami was drawn to the idea of celebrating the beauty of brokenness and using it as an opportunity for rebirth. This led to her incorporating Japanese lacquer into her contemporary stoneware art objects, seamlessly blending Eastern tradition with modern artistic expression.

In her work, Karen Swami applies Japanese plant-based lacquer (urushi) to bisque-fired, polished stoneware. The lacquer enhances the raw texture of the clay, allowing it to shine through in a way that emphasizes the material’s natural characteristics. The distinctive finishes she achieves with the lacquer evoke the tactile qualities of wood, leather, and stone, offering a visual and textural richness that distinguishes her work from more conventional glazed ceramics. Unlike glossy glazes that tend to mask the surface imperfections, Japanese lacquer reveals the underlying irregularities of the clay, creating a harmonious balance between elegance and authenticity.

These handmade ceramic objects are a reinterpretation of tradition. Karen Swami gives each piece a new dimension, allowing the inherent beauty of the material to come to the forefront. The lacquer not only elevates the visual appeal of the ceramics but also highlights the skillful craftsmanship that defines each unique work. Whether crafted for collectors or interior design enthusiasts, Karen Swami’s stoneware pieces offer a sophisticated fusion of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation.