In a dialogue: Valeria Vasi, Designer & ceramist

Valeria Vasileva, is a Moscow-born, Barcelona-based designer, creative director and founder behind @valeria.vasi

Can you share a little bit about yourself? For example, what you studied, if there’s a history of artists in your family, etc.

I grew up between Moscow and Barcelona in an artistic environment, since my mother is a painter. So I think the world of art was instilled in me without my even realizing it. But later on, the world of fashion started to catch my attention and I ended up working in the industry for more than 10 years. 

You replaced the world of fashion with the world of ceramics. What lessons have been fundamental in shaping your personal project? What made you choose ceramics?

I’ve always been fascinated by all kinds of crafts, but especially ceramics because of the infinite possibilities when it comes to experimenting with volumes. I loved the fact that I could use my hands to create pieces that I had in mind. That’s when I started working with this material and I embarked on this journey.

What are your influences?

Travel has been one of my biggest influences, as I’ve been lucky enough to have traveled a lot. Abstract art was also one of my first references, specifically the works of Kandinsky; the geometric elements and the importance of colours are fascinating to me. For me, beauty lies in those simple, basic forms. Also, Oteiza’s work is like poetry to me. I find his awareness of emptiness fascinating. I try to play with concepts such as the interaction between fullness and emptiness when creating my pieces.

How do you deal with times when you lack focus or creativity? Do you have a ritual?

I really don’t think you can force creativity. Everything is cyclical and there are moments when it flows and others when it is blocked. I think the best approach is to accept it and enjoy every moment.

What would your dream project be?

The one I’m working on now! Being able to design pieces I love, searching for artisans who work with different materials and techniques, being able to learn with each new piece, collaborating with different artists, having the freedom to manage it all in my own way... I’ve worked hard to get the public exposure and now I’m enjoying it to the fullest.

What is your work methodology like?

It depends a great deal on the project since I not only design but also do art direction, photos, styling and floral art. Normally I start with an idea, a form that appeals to me, and I use drawings and models to polish it before making the first prototypes with the artisan. I’ve learned the techniques of the different artisan processes used for each material. Working with clay is not the same as working with glass or wood, for example. Another important part of my job is finding artisans I connect with and who understand my designs. 

Is there anything new, unrelated to your current work, that you’re interested in learning more about?

The Japanese floral art of Ikebana has fascinated me for a long time and last year I did a course, which I loved. I find it a bit like meditation and a celebration of the beauty of nature. 

If you could go back three (or five) years, what advice would you give yourself? Where do you see yourself in three to five years’ time?

Don’t stress so much!

In the last few months, has anything piqued your interest and turned into a new activity or hobby?

I’m preparing an exhibition in a Baroque palace in Rome, where I’m not only designing the pieces but also focusing on the space in an attempt to communicate not only through the object but also through space itself.

Would you recommend a destination, restaurant, museum, gallery or bookshop?

Paris is a city close to my heart. I’ve lived there for several years and the cultural options it offers are endless! One of my favourites is the Gaite Lyrique cultural centre, a multidisciplinary platform dedicated to the arts and technology. It hosts exhibitions, concerts, lectures and workshops. Another place I love is Galerie Perrotin, a spectacular space hidden away in an inner garden in Le Marais.