STEFFIE VAN DEN AKKER CERAMICS

Stffie van den Akker Keramieken lampem
Steffie van den Akker Ginkgo Keramiek
Steffie van den Akker Ginkgo Keramiek

Hello! I’m Steffie, a ceramic artist and photographer from Maastricht. My work is an ongoing search for new possibilities, experimenting with glazes, colors, and textures. Every step of the process, from shaping the clay to opening the kiln, is an adventure where I can fully express my creativity. It’s the exciting dynamic between expectation and surprise that makes ceramics so fascinating to me.

The Play of Glazes, Colors, and Textures

I’m always searching for new ways to combine color and texture. Whether it’s an unexpected glaze that gives a piece a subtle shine, or a color reacting with the clay in a way I couldn’t have anticipated – each experiment brings its own discovery. The power of ceramics, for me, lies in the freedom to play with materials, techniques, and the end result, which sometimes unfolds in unexpected ways.


The Exciting Process: From Clay to Artwork

The process of making ceramics is always exciting. It begins with shaping the clay, a moment of focus and feeling, as I gradually form the piece. Once the piece is dry, the bisque firing follows, the first moment when the clay takes on its solid form. This is a critical phase – the transition from soft material to hard, and it always feels like an important step.

Then comes the glazing, where I can fully unleash my creativity. Applying the glaze is like painting, but with liquid pigments that spread in their own unique way. Sometimes, I don’t know exactly what I’m going to get, and that makes the process even more exciting.


Freek: the opening of the Kiln

And then comes the most exciting moment: opening the kiln, my beloved Freek. After the final firing comes the reward: the moment when I transform the clay into a piece of art. It’s always a surprise, because the glaze often results in something different than I had expected. Sometimes I get the subtle nuances I long for, other times the clay reveals something unexpected, something I could never have imagined.

This is the magic of ceramics for me: the creation takes on a life of its own, independent of my planning. It’s a process of exploring, experimenting, and discovering. Every time it’s exciting, but that’s what makes it so special. The final result, whether it’s a mug, bowl, or another object, reflects all those layers of creativity and surprise.


Unique, Handmade Memory

In my work, I try to capture the vibrant energy of the creative process and embed it into each ceramic form. My pieces are not objects, but stories – stories of curiosity, experimentation, and the quiet power of patience. Each piece is a personal adventure, infused with passion and dedication.

Whether you are looking for a special gift or a unique element for your interior, each piece has been brought to life with care and love. In addition to the selection in my webshop I also create custom-made pieces, allowing you to weave your own wishes into my work.

My Sources of Inspiration in Ceramics
Steffie van den Akker Keramiek & Fotografie Maastricht
Steffie van den Akker Keramiek Minivaasje
Steffie van den Akker Keramiek & Fotografie Maastricht

My work is strongly influenced by ceramicists who bridge the gap between tradition and innovation. Akira Satake inspires me with his Japanese techniques and connection to nature. Akikos Pottery, with its organic shapes and rich textures, appeals to me through its combination of simplicity and refinement. Also, Florian Gadsby, with his modern approach to ceramics and minimalist forms, encourages me to experiment further with organic and natural finishes.

Additionally, I draw a lot of inspiration from within myself by observing closely. Observing nature, people, shapes, lines, and patterns I encounter daily. These observations often form the basis of my designs and help me generate new ideas and creative connections.

Unique Handmade Ceramics for Your Café or Restaurant
handgemaakte espressokopje
keramieken espressokopje
handgemaakt espressokopje

Looking for handmade ceramics that give your café or restaurant a unique look? I create tableware, mugs, cups, espresso cups, storage jars, and more, all crafted with care and expertise. Each piece is a small work of art, made in limited editions, so you’ll have something that can’t be found anywhere else. Let yourself be inspired by the design and the atmosphere my ceramics bring to your establishment.

Get in touch here to collaboratively create the perfect design that will complete your hospitality experience, or read more here about the possibilities.


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