Back to our roots
Encounters
Encounters with materials such as ceramics are always a passionate affair. Passion is a landscape, and one that is dear to Yannick, co-creator of Popus. Born in Morocco, he once worked there, but hasn’t for a long time now.
And then, in a world where time stood still as a result of the health crisis, the unpredictable nature of life prompted him to return to his homeland, as well planting the seed for a strong desire to go and meet the craftsmen whose work he had always seen unfold.
The meeting was with one of the most highly-skilled ceramists in the land, where the act is in perfect harmony with the touch of the clay.
This inspired a true fascination that was to transform itself into a collaboration with human relationships at its core. A collaboration built around a unique form of hospitality, from a people for whom this sacred duty remains a pillar of their country’s culture. It is this emotional warmth which gives birth to the textures and patterns in Popus’ colours.
The creative process
The creative process is different in the north and the south of the country, with women moulding clay in the north, and men using lathes in the south.
These techniques, acknowledged since the 12th century, offer variety and a refined quality that reflect a certain art of living. Depending on whether they are Berber or Arab influenced, these ancestral techniques differ, but they all exist still with unparalleled savoir-faire. Once the pottery is given shape, it is dried by hand before being left out to dry in the sun and then fired in a kiln.
This was a very in-the-moment for us, but it quickly turned itself into a tangible reality in the form of a few favourite pieces, such as a small side table with ornamental grooves, reminiscent of the grooves that form the basis of many of these older pieces.
Know-how
We wanted to create a succession of patterns and shapes on objects that are exceptional, non-standardised pieces in order to create works of greater authenticity.
Our wish is to also give pride of place to handmade and forgotten creative expertise, as, for us, this has been a great source of inspiration and a way to showcase traditional crafts.
