I have been wanting to add a new dimension to the blog, and as I adore exploring, I thought that meeting the people who make the stuff I adore would be fantastic. SO without further ado:
First up is a sensational ceramists based in Berlin: Kühn Keramik. I had seen the work of Bernhard Kühn on the internet, and loved it so much, that I arranged to meet at his Berlin Studio when I was in town. My travel {best} buddy Tina from Traveling Mama came along. Here is my version of the story:)
Bernd told us how he always enjoyed working with his hands, and when he asked his father what he should do for a living his father suggested a baker, cook or confectioner, as long as it was something he could make, and put in a hot oven. His choice fell on ceramics.
I think that Bernd's style is something between baroque, glamour and kitch, with a humorous touch. Bernd says he keeps it simple, and then sees what happens. His ceramics are sold throughout the World now, but his studio and shop is based in the Kreuzberg area of Berlin. The shop is an old Apothecary, that in the very early days served as a restaurant. When Bernd and his wife Claudia, {who works in the shop, and deals with all the marketing and PR}, bought the place, they discovered amazing ceilings and rooms that had been covered for years.
His studio and the kiln is downstairs, as is 3 assistants who help him with the creative process. The ceramics are all hand made, they are glazed twice, and then decorated. Berndt has several drawers with decals, and he tells me that a design just comes to mind and then he tries to create it. From what I've seen I think he has managed that pretty well.
The shop has an amazing ambience, and mixed with the spectacular ceramics produced I'd be more than happy going back for more. We were made to feel very welcome, and I loved it there, happily walking around, exploring. I am always amazed by creative people, and how they manage to make things others want to purchase. I bought myself an amazing 'darling' cup (naturally) and I love it.
Thank you Bernd and Claudia for having us, and maybe see you next time we visit Berlin. Also have a look for Kühn Keramik and their fantastic collaborations with Rory Dobner and Astier de Vilatte.
So guys what do you think? Did you enjoy this studio tour? Should I visit more cool places? - let me know your thoughts. Tina has also blogged her awesome version of the story, so have a look here.
Kühn Keramik
Yorckstraße 18
10965 Berlin
+49 (0) 30 28 384 695
