The Reverence for Handmade Objects: The Story of GORN Ceramics
In a world increasingly dominated by mass production and digitalization, the value of handmade objects has never been more profound. These creations carry the essence of human touch, emotion, and uniqueness, offering a stark contrast to the homogeneity of machine-made goods. Handmade objects are not just functional or decorative; they are storytelling vessels, imbued with the thoughts, struggles, and hopes of their creators. This reverence for handmade craftsmanship is beautifully illustrated through the story of GORN Ceramics, a studio based in Kyiv, Ukraine, whose journey has been shaped by resilience, creativity, and a deep connection to human emotion.
The Birth of GORN Ceramics and the Turning Point of "Shadows"
GORN Ceramics was founded in 2018 by Yuriy Myrko, Bogdan Kryvosheya, and Sasha Mychak, three visionary artists who sought to create ceramic tableware that was both functional and artistically meaningful. Initially, the studio focused on producing utilitarian items like vases and bowls, designed by its founders and other collaborating artists. However, it wasn’t until the creation of "Shadows," a series of eight faceless, ghostly sculptures, that GORN Ceramics truly found its voice. These sculptures, made of clay and copper, were first exhibited in August 2020 during the Bouquet Kyiv Stage Festival at the Saint-Sophia of Kyiv conservation area. The public’s reaction was overwhelming, and the sculptures remained on display for nearly three years, becoming a symbol of human connection, spirituality, and the transcendent power of art.
"Shadows" marked a turning point for GORN Ceramics, as it shifted the studio’s focus from purely practical objects to emotionally charged art pieces. The sculptures explored themes of human relationships, death, and spirituality, offering a profound commentary on the human condition. For Bogdan Kryvosheya, the studio’s creative director, this shift was a natural progression. "We wanted to create something that spoke to people on a deeper level," he explained. "The pandemic and the war made us realize how fleeting life is, and how important it is to express our inner worlds through art."
Thriving Amidst Adversity: The Resilience of GORN Ceramics
The journey of GORN Ceramics has been far from smooth. Just two years after its founding, the Covid-19 pandemic struck, disrupting global supply chains and forcing the studio to adapt to new challenges. Then, in February 2022, Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, plunging the country into chaos. Despite the horrors of war, GORN Ceramics not only survived but thrived, thanks to its resourcefulness and creative spirit. The studio’s low-energy production methods, which rely on human hands shaping local clay and firing it in wood-fired kilns, proved resilient even in the face of limited resources and unstable electricity.
Moreover, GORN Ceramics found strength in its collective operation. Working with Kryvosheya and Myrko, a team of three artists creates pieces under the GORN label while also pursuing independent projects. Yaroslav Honchar, for instance, designed the minimal, juglike "East Wind" vessels in olive-green hues, while Yuriy Sulikovsky contributed to the "Flame" vases, which are fired at hyper-scorching temperatures to produce unique streaks and dapples. Dmytro Yakub, Myrko’s apprentice, assists in daily operations and contributes to various collections. This collaborative approach has allowed GORN Ceramics to innovate and grow, even in the darkest of times.
From Local to Global: GORN Ceramics’ International Success
GORN Ceramics’ journey from a small Kyiv studio to an internationally acclaimed brand is a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance. The studio’s pieces, which range in price from $45 for a bowl to $12,000 for sculptures, are now sold globally, with a significant presence in European and American markets. Sana Moreau, an art dealer who sells GORN’s work in her Ukrainian-themed design shop in Paris, describes the studio’s ability to implement complex and unusual ideas for modern interiors. "Their ceramic sculptures touch on deep philosophical themes," she says. "They are not just objects; they are statements about life, death, and the human condition."
The studio’s international success was further amplified by the global attention on Ukraine following the Russian invasion. As the world rallied in support of Ukraine, interest in Ukrainian design surged, with many turning to art as a way to connect with the country’s culture and resilience. For GORN Ceramics, this increased visibility has meant a 30% increase in sales since the invasion. Yet, as Moreau notes, this growth is not driven by pity but by the undeniable quality and emotional depth of Ukrainian design. "People are drawn to the authenticity and passion behind these pieces," she says. "They want to support artists who refuse to let fear define their lives."
Building a Community: GORN Ceramics’ Commitment to Cultural Growth
As GORN Ceramics continues to grow, its founders remain deeply committed to fostering creative and cultural growth in their community. Last year, the studio opened a ceramics school, offering workshops that teach every aspect of the craft, from technical skills to the therapeutic benefits of clay work. The school has enrolled about 40 students, many of whom are professionals in fields like technology and business, seeking a creative outlet to nourish their souls. "They want to do something meaningful, something that connects them to their humanity," Kryvosheya explains.
Beyond its commercial success, GORN Ceramics sees itself as a catalyst for cultural transformation. By nurturing a new generation of ceramic artists and creating spaces for creative expression, the studio is helping to rebuild and strengthen Ukraine’s artistic identity. Its story is one of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of handmade objects to inspire and connect us. As Kryvosheya puts it, "You have nothing if you just keep sitting at home and crying all the time. We have to move forward, no matter what."
Looking Ahead: The Future of GORN Ceramics and Handmade Art
The story of GORN Ceramics is not just about a studio or its creations; it is about the universal human desire to create, connect, and transcend adversity through art. As the world continues to grapple with uncertainty, the value of handmade objects will only grow, serving as a reminder of our shared humanity and the beauty of imperfection. For GORN Ceramics, the future is bright, filled with possibilities to explore new ideas, inspire others, and contribute to the global conversation about the importance of handmade art.
In a world that often prioritizes speed and efficiency over craftsmanship, GORN Ceramics stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of slow, deliberate creativity. Its journey shows us that even in the darkest times, art can be a source of light, hope, and resilience. As we look ahead, the studio’s commitment to fostering creativity, building community, and creating deeply meaningful art will undoubtedly continue to inspire us all.
