My exploration of ceramics extends beyond the traditional kiln. I immerse myself in the ancient art of smoking, a method that connects me directly to the origins of pottery, and above all, to my personal history.

For me, it's much more than a technique; it's a ritual, an experience shared with my family and friends. My father and I build makeshift ovens out of old barrels, prepare the fire, bury the pieces—these are precious moments, filled with anticipation and wonder.

The pieces are nestled in a bed of wood chips and other fuels, then lit, submitting to the transformative power of the flames. The unpredictable nature of smoking means that each piece is a unique creation, marked by smoke, embraced by fire, and imbued with the spirit of our shared experience.

These cooking experiences, often shared with loved ones, become moments of creativity and connection, echoing the community spirit of early pottery traditions and nurturing a history of family and fire.