Horizon Europe project HEPHAESTUS ambassador

Artist: POL Polloniato

Contemporary art and craft

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POL Polloniato's journey to revive
ceramics in Nove

POL, a contemporary artist and craft maker, traces his creative journey back to the ancient tradition of Nove, where ceramics have been moulded into expressions of art for centuries. Inspired by the avant-garde research vein that emerged in Nove during the 20th century, POL embarked on a bold exploration of ceramics, breathing new life into a craft steeped in history.

In 2008, amidst one of Nove’s most challenging economic periods, POL made the courageous decision to delve into ceramics. Faced with a landscape marked by widespread abandonment and decay, he found inspiration in the forgotten relics of his community’s past. Exploring abandoned places filled with moulds, equipment, and materials, POL discovered a treasure trove of history waiting to be resurrected.

Hailing from a lineage of master artisans, POL’s connection to ceramics runs deep, akin to a familial bond. Raised in Nove, he represents the latest generation of craftsmen dedicated to preserving this time-honoured tradition. Despite initially veering towards other creative paths, POL eventually succumbed to the irresistible allure of clay, answering its call when the time was right.

His artistic journey took him through various mediums and techniques, from spray paint and graffiti to fabric painting and restoration work. Yet, it was ceramics that captured his heart and became the focal point of his creative endeavours. Rejecting the notion of ceramics as purely functional, POL sought to elevate its artistic potential, infusing each piece with his unique vision and perspective.

For POL, the workshop is not confined to four walls but encompasses the entirety of Nove itself. Immersed in the local community, he draws inspiration from the sights, sounds, and sensations of his surroundings, weaving together fragments of lived experiences into new forms of artistic expression. His studio, once an abandoned ceramics factory, serves as a testament to his dedication to preserving the past while embracing the future.

Championing a circular approach to art, POL breathes new life into old moulds, transforming mass-produced objects into one-of-a-kind artworks imbued with history and meaning. His work represents a bridge between tradition and innovation, a testament to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship passed down through generations.

As POL continues to push the boundaries of contemporary ceramics, he remains committed to his mission of redefining the art form for a new era. With each piece he creates, he invites us to reconsider our perception of ceramics, reminding us of its timeless beauty and enduring relevance in an ever-changing world.