In Georgia, wine isn’t just a drink—it’s a cultural cornerstone, and so is the vessel that holds it. For master ceramicist Nato, these earthenware vessels represent more than tradition; they embody the soul of Georgian ceramics. Rooted in ancient winemaking traditions, Georgian ceramics are a testament to resilience, craftsmanship, and cultural identity. Through Vacation With An Artist (VAWAA), you can step into this rich heritage, learning directly from Nato.
Her work draws on centuries-old traditions while incorporating modern techniques. Her signature ceramic bowls showcase intricate motifs inspired by Georgia’s landscapes and wildlife, blending heritage with artistic evolution. She is at the forefront of a cultural revival, breathing new life into traditional craftsmanship and redefining its place in contemporary art.
A Pioneer in Georgia’s Ceramic Renaissance
For centuries, Georgian ceramics flourished under influences from Persia, Arabia, Russia, and Europe. But after the Soviet era, the craft nearly vanished as supply chains crumbled and artistic priorities shifted. Nato saw an opportunity not just to revive this lost tradition but to redefine it for the modern world.
As the co-founder of the Georgian Ceramic Art and Craft Foundation and leader of White Studio, she has become a driving force in preserving and evolving Georgian ceramics. Her work celebrates the country’s artisanal roots—sourcing local clay, employing traditional hand-building and coiling techniques, and drawing inspiration from Georgia’s landscapes and fauna. She collaborates with artists across disciplines to push the boundaries of ceramic art, exploring themes of repair, transformation, and accessibility—including using braille in her pieces to engage blind visitors. Her creations reflect a deep connection to Georgia’s cultural landscape, drawing inspiration from its history, femininity, and natural beauty.
The resurgence of ceramics in Georgia is not just about reclaiming a lost craft; it’s about re-establishing a cultural identity. Increasingly, students and artists are turning to ceramics as both a profession and a means of artistic expression. Nato plays a key role in this movement, ensuring that these traditions remain relevant in the modern world.
A Rare Opportunity to Learn from Nato
As a dedicated mentor and teacher, Nato’s mission extends beyond creating art—she is committed to passing on knowledge. Through Vacation With An Artist (VAWAA), she invites apprentices to immerse themselves in Georgian ceramic traditions, offering a rare opportunity to learn firsthand from a master. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, her mentorship provides deep insight into technique, history, and cultural significance.
Her VAWAA mini-apprenticeship is more than a ceramics workshop—it’s an invitation to connect with a centuries-old tradition, experience the resilience of Georgian craftsmanship, and create something truly meaningful.
Nato is a force of nature – a true Renaissance woman, she works with each participant to hear what they wish to learn and experience. She then caters the experience with ease. To know Nato is to meet Georgian culture face-to-face. Her passion for her country, the people, and its traditions is as rich as the palette of her studio projects.
Meg, a VAWAA guest
Step Into the World of Georgian Ceramics
This is more than a ceramics workshop—it’s a chance to be part of a living tradition, to shape clay the way artisans have for centuries while contributing to its evolution. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ceramicist, Nato’s VAWAA offers an unparalleled opportunity to craft your own piece of history.
Book your 4-day VAWAA apprenticeship with Nato here.
