Ielizaveta Portnova, a Ukrainian ceramic artist now based in France, is a true trailblazer in the world of ceramics. Her artistry is marked by boundless creativity and a fearless spirit that leads her to explore uncharted territories in the realm of ceramic art. What sets her apart is not only her willingness to push the boundaries of tradition but also her ingenious approach to creating captivating and innovative pieces.
With deft hands, Portnova sculpts her works by hand, reveling in the tactile and textural qualities that clay offers. Her creative process involves the use of various modeling and firing techniques, often incorporating elements of her previous creations and those of other artists to give birth to fresh and unconventional pieces. It is a dynamic and ever-evolving approach that breathes new life into ceramic art.
What makes Portnova’s creations particularly striking is her skillful use of oxides, slips, and glazes, which add depth and character to her works. She artfully integrates organic and inorganic materials, leading to a captivating interplay of ambiguity. Her pieces blur the boundaries between the natural and the artificial, challenging viewers’ perceptions and inciting a sense of wonder and curiosity.
Nature, the sea, and the world of archaeology serve as the wellspring of inspiration for Ielizaveta Portnova’s art. Her works evoke the textures of layered rocks, fossils, and the weathered remnants of time, exuding an innate fragility and an element of unpredictability, much like the forces of nature herself.
Portnova’s artistic journey has led her across the globe. She has actively participated in various residencies, including the esteemed one in Vallauris. Her art has graced numerous exhibitions, from the charming Brussière Badil ceramic market in Dordogne to the distinguished congress of the International Academy of Ceramics in Geneva, and even the illustrious Grand Palais in Paris.
Recognition and accolades have poured in, attesting to the brilliance of her creations. In 2019, she was awarded the Grand Prize at the Opishne International Ceramic Biennial in Ukraine. In 2022, she secured the prestigious Honorary Prize at the international ceramics exhibition “MediTERRAneo” in Italy.
Portnova’s art has resonated with audiences across Europe and Asia, captivating viewers with its mystique and charm. Her works have been featured in various exhibitions in South Korea, Italy, Spain, and her native Ukraine. She is a proud member of the National Union of Artists of Ukraine and the International Academy of Ceramics in Geneva.
Ielizaveta Portnova is not just a ceramic artist; she is a visionary who challenges conventions and invites us to explore the rich, complex, and ever-evolving world of ceramic art. Her pieces are a testament to the limitless possibilities within the medium and the enduring allure of nature’s artistry.