Earthware, a tool for life

The forty-fifth issue of 『Urbanlike』 is ‘Earthware, a tool that contains life.’
Bowls are an element that symbolizes the times and serve as a cross-sectional inference of the lifestyle and culture of the time.
In this issue, in an age where numbers and data dictate everything, we aim to shed light on the "present of vessels," which lie at the boundary between everyday goods and art, practicality and decoration, through contemporary creators and their works who work with clay, a "material from nature."

Ceramics, made from clay, is the material that has been used for the longest time to make utensils for holding food or objects.
Recently, there has been a growing interest in 'works of art' that are handmade and fired in a kiln, a production method that has remained unchanged for centuries, rather than in smooth, uniform 'products' produced in factories.
Perhaps, since everything relies on technology and the efficiency of machines, I guess it's because of the longing and instinct for unchanging values.
Also, it may be because the fact that no two pieces in the world are the same because they are individually made by hand, and the imperfect nature of ceramics as a material that can break at any time, all of this is relatable to us through its human side.
Unlike the industrial era, when we were accustomed to the convenience of plastic and disposable products, a series of movements concerned about the environment of the Earth, the foundation of our lives, are also fueling this trend.
I hope that the stories in "Urbanlike" will not only inspire readers' daily lives, but also increase their satisfaction with life.

I would like to recommend that you own at least one small piece of ceramic, even if it is not a moon jar.
I believe that only then can we develop further into a cultural powerhouse.
The collection is a shortcut to supporting the author.
Then, the writer will be empowered and be able to create better works, which will in turn leave a positive influence on future generations.
Of course, it is also important that personal life satisfaction increases.
---p.11 From “New Classic, Moon Jar - Curator Jo Hye-young”

“When purchasing ceramics, the price should be checked last.
If you have a deep emotion in your heart, you must trust your instincts and follow them.”
---p.47 From "Ceramic Artist Steve Harrison - Ceramic Artist Steve Harrison"

I don't have any specific advice for people buying ceramics.
In reality, the ideas of ‘porcelain should be like this’ and ‘white porcelain should be like this’ are of no use in real life.
Approach pottery with a pure heart and without any preconceived notions.
Let's have a conversation.
It's okay if there's no reason, so listen to your heart and see what draws you in and what speaks to you.
---p.115 From “The Life of a Ceramic Artist - Ceramic Artist Kim Ik-young”


I don't think I can make ceramics.

Because next to the potters who make real ceramics, I am just an amateur who knows nothing, is clumsy and unhappy.

I just spend time following along, listening carefully, and observing.
---p.132 From "Picasso and Ceramics" - Painter Pablo Picasso


It is necessary to select items that can be used effectively in one's diet.
Take a look at the dishes you have and find ones that would be good to add.
For other factors, trust your own senses and judgment.
I touched it and looked at it, and listened to it here and there, and then I just went home, but I keep thinking about it.
Then I'll buy it and give it a try.
Choosing a dish is no different from choosing clothes.

---p.175 From “Conveying the Essence of Crafts - Jeong So-young, CEO of Jeong So-young’s Kitchen”