LERRY ceramics: contemporary ceramics inspired by ancient history and the desire to adorn

LERRY ceramics, founded in 2020 by Elke Vanlerberghe, is a Belgian-based brand known for its handmade and uniquely designed ceramics. Each piece is meticulously crafted with a focus on creativity, quality, and the ability to bring joy.

The ceramic creations are the result of an urge to experiment with clay, decoration techniques, glazes, shape and colour. In her studio in the backyard of her home in Ghent, ​ Vanlerberghe works on the unique visual language of LERRY ceramics by combining smileys, bows and shells with references to Greek and Roman culture. 

Inspired by the desire to decorate, adorn, and celebrate, LERRY ceramics explores the art of embellishment and how it can have a transformative effect. Since the Greeks and Romans, the Mayans and Incas, the Egyptians, and the Middle Ages, humans adorn buildings, objects, and even themselves to elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary. ​ ​
​Homes and churches were decorated, utensils embellished, people dressed up, things were framed, put on pedestals, inaugurated, theatricalised. Today, there is still the urge to make things prettier than they are. Think of the red carpets, weavings, moulures, patterns, colours, jewels... 

In its unique way, LERRY is doing the same with seemingly ordinary objects. What if that pedestal itself is given so much decoration that it steals all the attention? What if the bowl that is supposed to just hold your food becomes the conversation piece? What if a tea cup no longer blends in with the tableware but comes to the fore itself and there is doubt whether you would still put it in the dishwasher or put it behind glass to show it off at leisure? What if the ordinary becomes the extraordinary?

​Images (download here, credit: Nathalie Samain)

On view Dubai Design Week

From November 5th until November 10th 2024 nov

Location: ​
​Dubai Design District (d3)
​Comptoir 102 

About LERRY ceramics

LERRY ceramics includes everyday utilitarian objects such as candlesticks, mugs and plates, as well as more sculptural objects. Some creations are deliberately rough and coarse, drawing attention to their own materiality; others, in turn, are elegant and frilly through their shape and use of colour.

Elke Vanlerberghe, the creative force behind LERRY ceramics, is a talented artist based in Ghent, Belgium. With a passion for ceramics and a keen eye for detail, she meticulously crafts each piece in her backyard studio. Every item is shaped and fired to perfection, ensuring its durability and beauty.

LERRY Ceramics has quickly gained recognition in the art and design community. The brand was featured in the Belgian Art & Design Fair in both 2021 and 2023, showcasing its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs. Additionally, LERRY held a successful solo exhibition at the Maniera Galerie during the Collectible 2022 event.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Elke Vanlerberghe shares her passion for ceramics through workshops and collaborations. Since October 2022, she has been conducting weekly workshops at Studio Terrara and Studio Ossekop, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the art of pottery. Furthermore, Elke has been invited to teach a three-part workshop at KASK, introducing second-year interior design and furniture students to the world of clay.