FYI — there is a young Matisse out there creating beautiful things, literally.
In the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, is a ceramic workshop led by creative director and co-founder, Connie Matisse, along with co-founders Alex Matisse and John Vigeland. East Fork, the dinnerware company specializing in stoneware plates, mugs, and bowls, just released a cutting-edge collection of hand-crafted, minimal pieces.
The new spring glazes, titled Utah and Taro, is made of a peachy terracotta and an earthy lilac, which each represent the aesthetic of the collection's names, respectively. The collection's mix of colors and materials is especially rare, as East Fork's chemist spent around six months developing the glaze and testing for the perfect hue and feel.
When describing their work, Connie Matisse explains,"Our work is paired down to seamlessly fit into a wide range of aesthetics and interiors. The core styles provide a foundation for the collection, while the seasonal glazes let our personal styles shine a little; for instance, I draw inspiration from the fashion industry." The team has an ear to their audience's wants, paying attention to social media waves and requests.
The founders come from a long-lineage of artists, including Alex's great-grandfather Henri Matisse, and pay close attention to craftsmanship while testing new techniques. "Switching from wood to gas firing has allowed us to experiment with color and fire our pieces with more accuracy and consistency, at a much faster pace," explains Alex. "It's like going from a conestoga wagon to a Tesla." A beautiful interpretation of tableware, this collection is far more than a line of ceramics with the Matisse name on it. Rather, it's a representation of well-studied craftsmanship and, of course, well-made art.
To shop or find out more about the collection, check out the entire line here.
