Oliver Eschmann
PandO Ceramics
Hallein, Austria
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Artist Statement
I create useful and decorative everyday objects in stoneware, with a strong emphasis on functional design and the practicality and usefulness of my pots. My work often has a minimalist and rustic style, intended for those who appreciate the elegance of simplicity. Our art is born from a love for the traditions and values of the pottery craft, while never forgetting the need for change and evolution.
Studio Description
In the middle of the old town of Hallein, which has roots back to the time of the Celts, we, my Partner Petra and I, create functional and decorative ceramics for private and business customers. Our goods are mainly turned on the potter's wheel and finished with glazes from our own production. In addition to our collections, a large area of our work is commissioned work.
What type of clay do you use?
Red and white stoneware from the Westerwald region in Germany
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 6–8
What is your primary forming method?
Wheel throwing
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Slips and glazes
Do you make any of your own tools?
Yes, especially trimming tools and ribs
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Puristic
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
The open working area allows me to show our work to all our customers.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Pottery wheel
What are your top three studio wishes?
A pugmill, a gas kiln, and more space
What’s on your current reading list?
Engobes by Wolf Matthes
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Making Tools, reclaiming everything possible, and making my own glazes
How do you recharge creatively?
Reading, bicycle riding, and cooking
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Do everything you do with care, and work neatly. Efficiency and speed come all by themselves
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Everything that we make is made by hand. No molds, extruders, or aids like special pre-formed kidneys. The challenge every day is to improve all the techniques needed to do this.
What did your first piece look like?
I have unfortunately forgotten but as far as I remember, not particularly beautiful.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
No special superpower. I think what distinguishes me is the bandwidth of my possibilities. Because I do a lot of contract work and attach much importance to a properly executed craft, I must have a wide range of skills.
What area of skill do you most look to other artists to learn?
Any area of skill. I try to improve myself continuously and try to use every opportunity to do so.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
I don't have a particular person I look up to, or rather, I have great respect for anyone who makes a living working with their hands. However, I am quite impressed with Korean ceramics.
What is on your studio playlist?
Leon Bridges, The Dip, Shakey Graves
Why do you create art?
Because I can.
Who is your favorite artist and what do you admire about that artist?
I don't have a favorite artist. However, I'm always impressed by people with a certain humility and real passion.
What is your best studio tip?
Be persistent and try to make good craft.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
I think clay is perfect as it is.
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