So, this is one of my current 4 potters that I am beginning to work with here in Amizmiz. And if you have been reading some of my previous posts, than you should already know that one of my first projects (delegated by the ministry in charge of the artisan sector of Marrakech) has asked that I assist these potters with new designs. In my site of Amizmiz, there are close to around 300+ potters, and the following examples of their pottery is identical across all 300+ potters. This particular gentleman is named Hassan. Hassan has been a potter for most all his life, and lives in the mud homes on the crest of the Middle Atlas Mountainside there in Amizmiz. The hole behind him is the area that he uses to fire his pottery.
1 comment:
I came across your blog while researching Moroccan ceramics for an African art research paper I'm currently working on. I'm a potter myself, in grad school - granted I'm one of those "art" potters as the folk potters of Georgia call me, but traditional crafts are a passion of mine. One of the things continuely discussed in this African art class is how Africans have this amazing ability to integrate contemporary influences with their traditions and the evidence is directly visable through their art. I can appreciate your struggles with trying to have the four potters you are working with to think "outside of the box" while addressing the financial constraints of their day to day existence. What I'm not certain of from your posts is what exactly your objective is. Do you want them to be innovative within their craft? Or do you just want the quality of craftsmanship to increase to better their marketablity with the tourist trade and thus increasing there financial security? The photos you posted showing the pots you admired at the festival are so similar in form to what the potters you are working with. From what I can see the major difference is the decoration and glazing. I'd love to learn more about the village you are working in and more specifics of the village potters. If I can provide any technical advice, please let me know! I can be reached on my website... www.onepotmama.com
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