Guido De Zan
Guido De Zan, born in 1947, is a Master ceramicist from Milan. After working for several years as a caregiver for children with disabilities, he graduated in Sociology at the University of Trento.
He soon understood that his path was that of ceramics: in 1975 he began his artistic research and three years later he opened his workshop "Il Coccio", next to Milan’s Colonne di San Lorenzo. Initially, his work focused on creating everyday-use objects in majolica; then, once he discovered the raku technique, he gravitated towards more symbolic items, such as vases and decorative panels, but also cups for the tea ceremony. In the last twenty-five years, however, emphasizing the use of stoneware and porcelain, the Master has devoted himself almost exclusively to the creation of vases and sculptures, combining the manipulation of clay with sign research, thus giving life to his iconic pieces decorated with graphic symbols – his authentic distinctive signature.
He mainly draws his inspiration from Japanese and Northern European traditions, as well as from contemporary design. His pieces recall the lightness and texture of paper, the rigour and minimalism of Eastern culture, but also possess the kind of balance and elegance made possible only by the combination of exquisite design and high craftsmanship.
Guido De Zan’s creations can be acquired directly in his workshop or in specialized galleries, both in Italy and abroad, and some of his artworks can be found in public and private collections. Nowadays, he still works in his historic atelier.
