Vilasini Reddy in his studio. Photo courtesy: Sanjay Borra
Vilasini Reddy’s studio extends from his Jubilee Hills home to his living room and the family garage. Still, Potter feels she is not doing enough. The display of works in his studio also includes pieces sent by other potters. She displays his creations as a token of appreciation for his hard work, skill and attention to detail. “Some of the works displayed here are from others, who send their work to me to show,” says Vilasini. Ever since I started Potter Market in Hyderabad in 2019, I have been introduced to many talented potters from across the country.
Potters to look forward to at the Hyderabad Pottery Market include Manpreet Singh Nishtar (MSN Pottery), Carmel by Claysutra, Sandhya Kiran Chiluvuri and Ashish Choudhary. “This year I have asked the participating potters to include pop art. “This season is going to be beyond mugs, saucers and bowls,” says Vilasini. More than 40 artists will be at the Hyderabad Potter Market.
Vilasini was taught pottery making by her sister and before she knew it, she had mastered the art of working with clay.
In her studio, she adds the final touches of paint to a piece that needs to be prepared for the show this weekend (January 18-19). On the same table beautiful painted plates have been left to dry, and are ready to go into the kiln. The drying process is simple. The prepared pieces are carefully wrapped in layers of paper and plastic. She explains, this is the natural process of drying and reduces the chances of cracks and breakage when an item is sent for firing.
A line of villas inspired by underwater life – coral, sea urchins, jelly fish.
Does Vilasini name her pottery collection? The artist laughs and says, “I have started doing this now.” I created a collection titled ‘Haula Gaadu’ (Stupid Man). This line flew off the rack before I could even put it on for a show. This collection was about broken pots telling the story of one man.
Vilasini’s clay artefacts reflect his knowledge of various aspects of art. “I used to paint, still do. Crochet and knitting also keep me busy. Making pottery takes up a large part of my time. It’s messy but it’s the messiness that creates beauty.”
Her crochet pieces are used on wet clay to imprint the design on the clay. She explains that when painted on it gives the desired definition. “I have many such ideas; Some of them turn into monsters when I adopt it. Pretty monster in terms of time and energy demands.
Vilasini with some of his works at his Jubilee Hills home. Photo courtesy: Sanjay Borra
Talking about the appreciation of pottery, Vilasini speaks on behalf of the potters when she says, “It is a niche market. Appreciation of non-perfect pieces (handmade is never smooth and perfect) is not common. Handmade work is cumbersome, time consuming and we use superior quality clay. All this adds to the price compared to industrial, commercial clay products. Our cups and saucers don’t come out of a frame. This is all done by hand. Imperfections are a part of the look. This is hard to explain to people new to the world of handmade pottery. Potters from other states tell me that Hyderabad is a better market.”
(Hyderabad Potter Market will be held on 18th and 19th January from 10.30 am to 8 pm at Saptaparni, Banjara Hills.
published – January 16, 2025 02:23 PM IST
