Duchna Łosiak

Where do you live: 2000
Where do you live: Warsaw, Poland
Your education: I graduated from the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts, where I specialized in design.
Describe your art in three words: Exploration, boundaries, materials.
Your discipline: Ceramics and design.
Instagram

Can you tell us about your journey into the world of ceramics? What initially drew you to this medium?

At first, I actually avoided ceramics wherever I could, convinced it wasn’t for me. But in the end, I found myself completely drawn into it, unable to resist. I have always been fascinated by working with materials their texture, shaping possibilities, and transformation process. What captivates me the most is that ceramics is a constant interplay of all four elements-water, fire, earth, and air. And that it’s all about finding balance within them.

How did your time at the Warsaw Academy of Fine Arts and your internship at BOSCH influence your approach to design and ceramics?

At the Academy of Fine Arts, everything began for me. A bit out of defiance, I chose the ceramics design studio, which turned out to be a perfect fit. There, I learned to understand and respect the material I work with, while also thinking outside the box. On the other hand, my internship at BOSCH opened my eyes to following and listening to technology. A good designer should always consider the possibilities and limitations of technology and optimize their projects accordingly.
Combining these two worlds-the artistic and the industrial allowed me to create my own style, where aesthetics go hand in hand with technology.

What inspired the concept of your porcelain hair jewelry collection, and how did the story of “Rapunzel” shape its narrative?

The porcelain hair jewelry collection was my way of combining two fascinations-fairy tales and material. The story of Rapunzel symbolizes not only feminine strength but also delicacy and beauty. Porcelain perfectly reflects this duality—it is both fragile and enduring. The inspiration came from the idea of “captured beauty,” which I wanted to free and make part of everyday life, giving it a new form through unique accessories.

Can you elaborate on the experimental technique of hand-bending unfired slip? What challenges and discoveries did you encounter during this process?

Experimenting with hand-bending unfired slip was both a challenge and a fascinating journey. At this stage, slip is extremely delicate and prone to deformation, requiring patience and precision.
I discovered that the key lies in timing-knowing when the material is pliable enough but not too soft. This process also taught me to embrace imperfections, which often turned out to be the most beautiful and unique aspects of the final pieces.

Sustainability seems to be a significant focus in your work. How do you balance functionality, aesthetics, and environmental consciousness in your designs?

Sustainability is one of my top priorities. I strive to use materials in a thoughtful way and minimize waste throughout the production process. My designs are meant to be both beautiful and functional-objects that people will cherish for years. I believe that combining aesthetics with durability is the key to responsible design.

Your work blends tradition with innovation. How do you ensure that your designs remain timeless while incorporating modern techniques?

For me, tradition is the foundation, and modern techniques are the tools that allow it to evolve. My designs often draw inspiration from classical forms and ornaments, but I give them a contemporary feel through innovative processing methods or material experimentation. Sometimes, even a subtle change in proportions or a modern color palette can breathe new life into something traditional.

What role does storytelling play in your creative process, particularly in your recent project?

Storytelling is at the heart of my creative process. Every project has a narrative foundation—a story that inspires both me and my audience. In my recent collection inspired by “Rapunzel,” storytelling played a crucial role. I wanted each piece to convey a sense of strength, freedom, and the beauty hidden in fragility. I believe stories give objects deeper meaning, making them more personal and emotionally resonant.