the inland near Artemonas and Ano Petali to protect them from pirate invasions. Later on they were transferred to the island’s bays specially those that were protected from the strong north winds.
By the eighteenth century, many potters from Sifnos moved to other parts of Greece to sell their works and become potters there. Their most common destinations were Lesvos and Amaroussi where there is a colony of Sifnos potters till date.The ceramics they made ranged from those of domestic use including utensils like plates, cups, pitchers, glasses and water jars as well to other objects of use like milking pots, flaroses, dipselis and other special cooking vessels to pure artistic pieces.
Today, centuries after the art of pottery began in Sifnos, it is still a major source of revenue for the island. You will still find plenty who practice pottery just as their forefathers did. While shops selling these objects can be found all across the island, major workshops are located in Kamares, Pharos, Vathy, Platyialos and Cheronissos. Some of the most talented and famous potters of Sifnos today include:
• Kostas Depastas: He is one of the last surviving “old time” potters and has the honor of being called one of the best potters of Sifnos which is quite a title considering that the island is full of masters of the art. His workshop is located at one of the most isolated settlements of the island, Heronissos. He uses very conventional methods to create his ceramics. Kostas even digs his own clay and gathers wood to heat his kiln. Kostas begins making a pot by taking a lump of clay and adding a little water to it. As the wheel spins and the pot begins to take shape, he uses his thumb to widen the lip. A couple of spellbinding moments gone by and he is all done with another simple but alluring masterpiece. It is quite a sight to watch him at work and one that you will always cherish.
• Kostas Podotas: He is also one of the last of the old potters. Though his son now does most of the work, he still hangs out at his shop which is up the steps right before you get to the church in Kamares. His ceramics are considered to be the most practical and durable in all of Kamares.• Adonis Kalogirou: He is undoubtedly the most well known of all the potters in Sifnos not only for his pottery but also his incredibly charming personality. He is an excellent dancer besides being an exceptional potter. Infact, his paintings have been called the greatest example of primitive art since Theophilos.
• Georgios Atsonios: His shop is located in Kamares. His ceramics are among the best looking on the island, glazed and splendidly painted. He also has a shop in the suburb of Amaroussi in Athens where he is quite well known but personally he prefers living and working in Sifnos.
• Katerina Kalogirou: Katerina’s shop is probably the smallest in all of Kamares but her work is undoubtedly the most innovative and creative. Some of her creations like the little clay donkeys will definitely leave a smile on your face. Whenever you visit Sifnos, you must make it a point to stop by atleast one of these pottery workshops. It is a real pleasure simply just to watch these potters at work. It allows you to reminisce this ancient art that has for so many centuries survived on this island thanks to the gifted potters who have in the past and still do create objects of unique beauty and art. And ofcourse, there is no better souvenir than one of these pieces of art to remember Sifnos by.
The photo is from www.maligoj.com |
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