Terra-Ma(d)re

The work offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the distinctive features of Sicilian ceramics, particularly the production from the city of Monreale, renowned worldwide. It exemplifies the features of Nicolò Giuliano’s workshop, which creates pieces of impressive proportions and dimensions intended for gardens and porticos of villas. His workshop also produces decorative items for interiors, such as sculptures, cups and candlesticks with refined details. Clay—the main component of all glazed ceramics—is presented here in white. This enables the light that illuminates it to reveal a vase shape that follows the curves and counter-curves of the outer cups. The shadows on matte white also allow us to appreciate the three-dimensional decorations arranged in a seemingly random manner. In fact, these elements depict and tell the story of local traditions. Fruits and foliage (lemons, pomegranates, olive trees) mingle with marine symbols (jellyfish-headed snakes, octopus tentacles), also hinting at the geography of the region, the hill of Monreale overlooking Palermo, a city that embraces the sea.

“A tribute to the local craftsmanship of this southern Italian region founded on a multitude of cultural intersections. From my trip to Palermo came this ceremonial vase, the result of my meeting with Giuliano, at the crossroads between ceramic mastery and contemporary design.” (Sam Baron)

“It is interesting for me to work with designers who know the art of ceramics. The designer liaised directly with me to find the right form and the right techniques for this work, and also found inspiration in my past and present production.” (Nicolò Giuliano)