About my work
“To see beauty in that which is imperfect, old, modest and authentic.. “
Artist Statement – Jolanda van de Grint
I am a ceramicist based in the Netherlands, with a background in arts and crafts education and a specialization in ceramics. Since 2016, I have worked full-time in my studio, where I explore the expressive potential of clay through minimalist, unglazed forms and alternative firing techniques.
My work is rooted in the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi—the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and authenticity. I’m inspired by weathered surfaces, rusted metals, and ancient artifacts that reveal the passage of time. This aesthetic is reflected in the earthy textures, subtle color shifts, and fractured forms that characterize my ceramics.
I primarily use saggar firing in an electric kiln, a process that creates unpredictable, organic patterns without glazes. The results are never fully controllable, echoing the natural aging of materials. In some pieces, I use terra sigillata to enhance surface quality, and occasionally reconstruct intentionally broken forms, referencing archaeological restoration and the narrative of wear and repair.
My vessels are quiet, modest objects—simple in form, but rich in texture and story. They invite contemplation and connection with material, time, and fragility.