Copenhagen and the Ceramics Stage

Ever a city of effortless cool and pioneering Scandi design, Copenhagen has long been at the heart of the world’s ceramics stage. From the practical to the performative, when ceramics became sculpture Copenhagen was surely there, if not leading the pack.

Denmark’s rich ceramics history began in 1775 at the founding of Royal Copenhagen, Denmark’s official porcelain factory still going strong today, and historically famed for its delicate art-like approach to each glaze and signature use of bright cobalt blue.

But since the 18th century Copenhagen has continued to rule the ceramics style stage, moving from the fluid organic shapes of 20th century Danish sculptor and ceramicist, Arne Bang, into the contemporary, modernist Scandi aesthetic we know today – fluid curves or ridged sculptural forms in the shape of ceramic cups, bowls and vases, found in the chicest to the most edgy design establishments.

A Scandi staple and perfect gift, a fabulous spot to visit in Copenhagen is the Tortus studio in København, a haven of handmade ceramics, also holding mini workshops throughout late summer – autumn 2017.

From the beautiful yet practical to the oh-so sculptural, your trip to Copenhagen should also include a peek into Keramiker Inge Vincents, a sculptural ceramic studio of the most delicate proportions. Paper white and thin as snow, Vincents’ ‘collapsed vases’ and ‘dim sum lanterns’ are the ultimate in performative ceramic sculpture – look, admire, adore, occasionally dust - never knock.