Crafting Dreams: Sara Samsøe's Enchanting Journey into Ceramics at Atelier1991
Sara Samsøe
Sara works as Executive Producer in Copenhagen. In addition to her demanding role, Sara pursues a side venture as a ceramicist at Atelier1991, crafting precisely what inspires her most.
Embarking on an unexpected artistic journey, Sara Samsøe discovered her love for clay in Cape Town three years ago. Today, she supplies ceramics to prestigious venues like AOC, Atelier September and HART bakery. Sara's workshop in northern Zealand is a creative haven, where she crafts unique pieces reflecting her passion for clay. Join us as we explore Sara Samsøe's enchanting story and her distinctive approach to ceramics.
Three years ago, I found myself stranded in Cape Town, South Africa, with my boyfriend and a good friend due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To pass the time, we explored the city, and one day, I unexpectedly discovered a local ceramist with a small workshop exuding a unique and indescribable energy. What she crafted was incredibly beautiful. I was captivated by her work with clay and the array of colors. I purchased some of her pieces and inquired about her creative process. She simply responded, 'Just go home and buy a pack of clay and do it.' When we eventually returned home after a few weeks, I purchased a package of clay and an oven, set up a small workshop in our summer house, and began my journey.
I had never ventured into ceramics previously, and I refrained from taking any courses or enrolling in classes. I relied on YouTube videos and owned a single ceramics book; otherwise, I learned through persistent trial and error. I just learned by trying again and again and again. In the beginning, I made a lot of mistakes, and most of it just collapsed or broke in the oven when I fired it. I learned so much about how clay works.
I often dream about clay. It's so enticing that it comes from nature. Here in Odden, I can step outside, excavate my own clay from the ground, sieve it, shape it in the workshop, and fire it in my oven. It's truly fantastic. The clay feels alive. I truly feel a connection to it. Every movement of my body and hands is mirrored in the clay. And the possibilities with clay are endless; a soap dish, a mirror frame, a lamp base, an ashtray, a table, a chair – and, of course, plates, cups, vases, sculptures... The list is endless.
A ceramic piece in progress
With an intuitive approach to the process, Sara crafts new ceramic pieces in her workshop.
Mio Stool & Side Table
Patience is essential when working with clay, and admittedly, it has never been my strongest attribute. Currently, ceramics is just a sideline for me. My main role as an executive producer in a production company is demanding, with constant activity and ongoing dialogue with others, which aligns with my temperament. However, I've discovered the necessity for the opposite – tranquility and immersion. That's precisely what ceramics provides. Being with clay is hypnotic. Before I know it, three or four hours have slipped by, and I've forgotten to eat breakfast because I've become enchanted with the vase, I'm crafting.
At times, I sketch out my ideas, but often I go into the workshop without a plan for what I'm going to make. The only decision I make is whether to create something large or small. Otherwise, I work intuitively with the clay, letting it guide the creative process. The outcome is shaped by the day's mood and the influences I've encountered. Recently, my inspiration led me to craft sculptures adorned with triangular spikes, drawing from the imagery of the sea that I gaze upon from my workshop. I reflect on the stones, mussel shells, and life beneath the ocean's surface. These creations take on the essence of little sea creatures.
The fact that I can craft an object that resonates with others still strikes me as incredibly fantastic. It's amazing that people desire to own something created by my own two hands. When people inquire about a price, I find myself feeling a bit peculiar, sometimes suggesting they tell me what they're willing to pay for it. For me, the captivating aspect lies in the process. I've become addicted to it. Working with clay brings me genuine joy, and I create precisely what I desire.
Mio Stool & Side table
Glimpse from the Atelier1991 workshop
“The fact that I can craft an object that resonates with others still strikes me as incredibly fantastic. It’s amazing that people desire to own something created by my own two hands. When people inquire about a price, I find myself feeling a bit peculiar, sometimes suggesting they tell me what they’re willing to pay for it. For me, the captivating aspect lies in the process. I’ve become addicted to it. Working with clay brings me genuine joy, and I create precisely what I desire.”
Photos by Lasse Dearman
As told to Ditlev Fejerskov
