Hana Vasak: Melbourne Ceramic Artist

1. How were you introduced to Ceramics?

I began Dáša ceramics in ode to my mother, celebrating her life as an artist. She took up pottery in her later life and it always amazed me how gracefully she took to working with clay. Many of her pieces are with me. They each carry her story, this is present in the design of her pieces and the glazes she used capturing her explorative spirit and willingness to always try new things.  Her works were my introduction and it was all of this that inspired me to try my own hands at exploring this medium. 

2. What type of vases do you most like to make?

I love creating small unique collections of individual vessels that can be that functional sculpture or stand alone art object for the home. I enjoy making pieces that have a connection to the environment and are inspired by classical ancient pottery shapes such as the Amphora vessel.  

3.What is the best advice you have received through your ceramics studies?

Patience – when working with clay there are so many different stages, taking your time and embracing the slow process and accepting the lessons learned along the way. Each piece you make will teach you something. 

4. How did you manage to turn your passion into a business? 

Over time I’ve had moments that have encouraged me to keep pursuing my passion, opportunities along the way that allowed me to recognise that this is something I would like to embrace, meaningful opportunities to exhibit my work to working on projects and collaborations with artists I admire. This has been a slow and gradual process for me, I’ve dedicated ongoing time and energy to follow my passion of working with clay.

5. Are there any artists who you look up to or inspire you most?

I love looking at nature for inspiration. Looking at the finer details, patterns, colours and textures on trees, leafs, shells and rock formations. I also love visiting art galleries and museums, looking at ancient ceramic collections and learning about the rich history and significance of each piece, as well as looking at pottery books.

6. When doing your own flower arrangements, do you have any preference for the type of flowers you use?

This is a part of the whole process that I really enjoy. I love wild flowers, like poppy’s, fennel flower and cosmos or using single stem flowers to place in my vases like orchids, or lilies.

7. How would you describe your style of Ceramics?

I hand build all my pieces slowly, creating functional forms with curved finishes that have an organic quality. Often there is a connection to ancient pottery or nature. 

8. What is the best advice or secret tip  you would give to someone who is studying or teaching ceramics?

Experiment, learn and embrace what ever happens during the process. The possibilities are endless and you can learn so much from each piece you create. 

9. What is ahead in your ceramics future?

I am currently working on developing a body of work for an upcoming exhibition later this year at Michael Reid Gallery. As well making pieces for my online shop.  

10. For flower lovers – where would you recommend they visit in Melbourne in a 24 hour visit? 

I love visiting the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens,  it’s a beautiful scenic drive there and gorgeous selection of flowers, the walk through the gardens is really lovely too.  

Business Details

Website:  dasaceramics.com

Instagram:  @dasaceramics

Upcoming events: Exhibition with Michael Reid Gallery in November 2023