Inspiration

The world of pottery

THE ART OF SHAPING CLAY

Jul. 2024

4 min.

A skill that dates back to prehistory, pottery continues to exercise a powerful pull on those looking for authenticity. Made by hand and the time it takes, these creations incarnate the soul of those who shape them, step by step, from the raw material the refined edges of the finished decoration.

With this in mind, we decided to knock on the doors of two of the area’s truly unique potters.

The smooth nature of round objects

The quick drive to the charming village of Héry-sur-Alby takes us to Isabelle Lemel’s workshop-boutique. She made a career out of her passion for ceramics after working for years as a window dresser, designing decorations. The spark for the idea occurred one day during an introductory class for her kids. The fire continues to burn and illuminate every aspect of Isabelle’s work.

Since her love at first sight for clay, she shapes and decorates using Raku or glazing techniques based on the effect desired or even the time of year.

Isabelle has her own unique style, using round shapes and tribal characters to tell a story, with artistic creations that often walk a fine line between the real and the imaginary.

Her art boasts a very distinct identity, just like the figures inspired by the Fulani people of Senegal, yet whose “hairstyle” in bun form feels much more medieval in nature. And her signature couple, Lily and Gabriel whose more contemporary silhouette works for any type of décor. Isabelle is deeply attached to these characters that she admittedly will not easily separate from.

Isabelle’s world also has an animal side, including a small population made to resemble such local icons like the well-known Thones and Marthod sheep breeds, and even an owl often seen on display.

More exotic beasts include polar bears, seals, and penguins that often populate her creative world when the inspiration arises.

Alongside these purely decorative pieces, she also makes everyday dishware with motifs designed to harmoniously fit in with her unique creative world. Bowls, mugs, plates, vases, and jars decorated with colorful enamel and deliciously round crimson cherries complete her line of pottery.

In addition to this creative, artistic side of her business, Isabelle also teaches a multitude of workshops that allow her to share her passion with others. Each workshop provides a relaxing atmosphere and offers the opportunity to focus one’s attention on something creative.

To meet Isabelle Lemel and learn all about her artistic world, make your way either to her workshop-boutique or to the area’s potters markets this summer:

August 2 in Le Grand-Bornand,
August 25 in Menthon-Saint-Bernard,
September 7 in Rumilly.

Isabelle is often present at the art market in Annecy and will be at Bonneville’s art expo this year from October 5-13, 2024.

Isabelle Lemel Céramiste

Isabelle Lemel, sur le marché de Menthon-Saint-Bernard

Simple material

Next we head to Col de Leschaux Pass to meet with Didier Cossin, a talented, multi-faceted individual.

Located just 15 km from Annecy, in the heart of the beautiful and rugged natural landscapes of the Bauges Mountains Natural Regional Park, “Poterie du Col” pottery shop is a must-see on any visit to the area.

This workshop-boutique, located in an old renovated farmhouse in the village of Leschaux at the foot of Mt. Semnoz, is the sanctuary for this multi-faceted artist.

A different place, a different atmosphere, Didier does not volunteer much about who he is, preferring to talk more about what he does with his hands, with clay, and sharing his experience with others, enjoying the dialogue and the present moment. While quiet about himself, Didier speaks effortlessly about his artwork. And for good reason: his workshop-boutique, open from April through November, overflows with pottery.

Ali Baba’s cave if there ever was one, a genuine treasure in and of itself!

Potter, ceramicist, sculptor, Didier is a multi-faceted artist for whom the material he works with plays the leading role. He prefers using materials in their raw state, a blank slate so to speak with no pre-printed decorations or textures. Although he cuts notches into the clay to create a relief effect, his pieces use only natural dyes.

When it comes to the types of objects he makes, Didier’s imagination knows no bounds; his original pieces of art include vases, pots, tea pots, cups and mugs, figurines, jewelry, and even pendulums. Return home with more than enough gifts to give and souvenirs to enjoy. Upright, flared, slender, or wide-mouthed, every pot has its own unique cover and style. Full tea sets, carafes with accompanying shot glasses, candle holders, as well as astonishing bronze sculptures; Didier’s demonstrates talented creativity in every domain.

While clay remains his favorite material to work with, Didier Cossin also sculpts bronze, simply following his instincts and inspiration with no plan in mind, letting his hands do the work. Always modest, he tells the story of having taken an interest in pottery “two days less than a lifetime ago.” He likes meeting and talking any visitor interested in taking the time.

By hosting local painters and other artists on a regular basis, such as his sister Colette Cossin, who organizes wood carving workshops, he creates his preferred type of atmosphere, natural and authentic, just like his works of art!

Feel free to say hello, the door is open every day from 10:00 to 19:00 in the summer.

Poterie du Col de Leschaux