Maati is an interdisciplinary project that integrates regional traditions and ceramic practices from around the world to serve as a resource for contemporary ceramic practitioners in Colombia. Through education, research and production, Maati aims to contribute to the viability of ceramics as a discipline in Colombia and serves as focal point for local and international conversations about the role of ceramics in contemporary art.
Our studio is located at the historic Campos de Gutierrez homestead just 25 minutes outside of Medellin. The facilities include electric, gas and wood-fire kilns, a production and glazing studio, workshop space, and an outbuilding for wood-firing and processing clay.
The Maati studio is available as a resource for any artist working in Medellin. Please visit the Affiliations section or contact us at info@camposdegutierrez.org to learn more about our services.
Research
In 2011, Campos de Gutiérrez began a ceramics-oriented investigation of local traditional practices and regionally available raw materials in collaboration with the University of Antioquia. This research informed the development of the Maati program and the design and construction of its physical facilities. Today, our research continues to focus on the implementation of environmentally conscious studio and kiln design and sustainable development of clay bodies, glazes, and equipment in Medellin.
Education
MAATI offers ceramics courses and workshops in our facilities and in collaboration with museums, universities and schools. Our educational program is designed to provide participants with an understanding of the history, theory and techniques of ceramic production through a variety of engaging hands-on workshops. For more information about upcoming workshops, please see our Facebook Page .
To receive notifications about future workshops, please subscribe to our mailing list. You may also check our Activities Section, inquire with Silvia Triana at striana@camposdegutierrez.org, or visit the events section of our Facebook Page to see current and past workshops.
Production
Through our Residency Program and facility services, Maati aims to cultivate a high standard for ceramic production in Medellin. Local and international artists and designers use our facilities to make installation and sculptural works, as well as functional utilitarian ware. These works are often exhibited in the residency shows and engage in global conversations about art, history and heritage.
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Maati, from the Sanskrit word for clay, is an interdisciplinary project initiated and designed by Parul Singh, Amara Abdal Figueroa and Andrés Monzón. The founding team was able to establish the project thanks to the support of contributors from all over the world.