Fabien Mérillon
Chawans with an emanating presence that draws the hand and eye in
The Tadaima team meet the Parisian ceramist Fabrien Mérillon on a walk along the seine in Paris in September, where he was exhibiting during the ceramic festival at the Saint-Louise bridge.
Fabien Mérillon makes according to his individual style and Japanese influences, mixing the handbuilding techniques with signatures of personality to create ceramic of intimate feeling and worth
A graduate in art history and cinema, Fabien Mérillon worked in communication before devoting himself professionally to ceramics, which he had previously practiced as an amateur. He trained at the "Artset Techniques Céramiques" school in Paris and passed his CAP in Ceramics. In 2011, he opened his workshop-boutique, “Le Gang des Potiers” in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, where he designs, manufactures, exhibits and sells his creations.
His main speciality revolves around practical ceramics such as chawan and the other forms of tea ceremony ware referring to the concept of “Wabi” or “Mingei”. Wabi being things that are fresh and simple, denoting simplicity and quietude, also incorporating rustic beauty. Mingei meaning “folk arts” or “arts of the people”, so these two concepts merge nicely and lead to a stunning collection of goods.
Fabien has a simple and meticulous approach when designing his unique handmade pieces, also evident in his chawan tea bowls that have a refined yet casual look perfect for any setting. The sizes and shapes may vary – but this is all part of the story of each of the unique bowls that become small art pieces in themselves.
