Japanese lacquerware ceramic vases – Uru

By exploring the art of Kintsugi with Martine Rey, Karen Swami discovered the principles of Japanese lacquer. Fascinated by ceramic pieces in transformation, she integrated this technique into her sandstone creations of collectible pottery. By applying the Japanese vegetal lacquer (urushi) on polished and skillfully fired ceramic vases, it reveals the raw texture of the clay, offering finishes evoking wood, leather or stone. Unlike glossy glazes, lacquer enhances every detail without hiding any rough edges. With these handmade ceramic vases, Karen Swami revisits tradition to give a new dimension to the material.