As an archaeologist, I have always been interested in ceramics. Pottery is one of the most common type of archaeological find and one of the materials that survives best through time, providing valuable insights into past societies. Together with a friend and fellow archaeologist, we wanted to understand it not only as researchers, but also as makers.

While our first experiments had begun a year earlier, 2024 was when we started pursuing this interest more intentionally. We explored different clay materials and held workshops inspired by historical pottery-making practices.

By the second year, our initial curiosity had grown into a more focused exploration. We studied the variety of clays found across Estonia, learned from professional ceramicists, and sought to understand which materials were best suited for creating high-quality ceramics.

We gathered clay from locations across the country and in much larger quantities than before. Alongside making vessels, we concentrated on understanding the entire process, experimenting with clay preparation, washing, blends, and working methods. The aim was not only to create finished pieces, but to learn as much as possible about the full journey from raw clay in the ground to completed ceramics.

By the third year, ceramics began to evolve from a research-driven pursuit into a creative practice of its own. While my earlier efforts focused on learning about materials and techniques, I now find myself exploring a more personal artistic direction and sharing that journey through SÕBA.

Together with my partner, we experiment with forms, surfaces, and patterns inspired by archaeological finds and historical craftsmanship. Alongside the ceramic pieces we create, we are increasingly drawn to exploring how the same colours, textures, and shapes might find expression in painting and other forms of creative work.