A Conversation with Inhee Ma
For one summer, we had the pleasure of meeting ceramic artist Inhee Ma in her studio in the heart of Burgundy.
Founder of the INI CERAMIQUE studio, Inhee is renowned for her handcrafted creations that blend contemporary inspirations with a minimalist wabi-sabi aesthetic. United by a love of craftsmanship, we decided to pool our expertise to create a limited-edition collection of ceramic pots. Discover her journey, her inspirations, and the passion that drives each of her works through this interview.
Originally from Seoul, you graduated from the Fine Arts School in Montpellier and then moved to Burgundy to set up your studio. How does this influence your art?
I have traveled extensively since my teenage years. After studying art at a young age and finishing high school in Seoul, I felt the need to discover a new way of seeing, understanding, and producing art. France, with its rich artistic heritage, seemed like a natural destination. I had the privilege of studying at the École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Montpellier. This mix of cultures allowed me to find my artistic path and a unique way of expressing myself. Various opportunities then allowed me to settle in Burgundy, and I am delighted!
Burgundy is a region known for its abundant nature. Does it inspire your creativity?
Burgundy is a spectacular region with its forests, mountains, and lakes. This exceptional natural environment undoubtedly enriches my daily life. Frequent hikes in the forests near my home and the landscapes I observe through the large window of my studio contribute to a pleasant working environment. Finally, without seeking to directly reproduce its beauty, the energy of nature and my immediate environment indirectly influences my work.
Your works often evoke a sense of tranquility and harmony. How do you cultivate these feelings in your creative process, and what do you hope people feel when they interact with your ceramics?
I believe my mindset and personal reflections as an individual and a creator are reflected in my work. We're all surely looking for a little serenity and harmony in our lives, and I hope my creations bring joy and freshness to everyday life. I want INI CERAMIQUE to be synonymous with freedom and a certain dreaminess. I like the idea that my work can take people on a journey, both geographically and temporally, and offer an escape in a time that sometimes seems difficult.
« I like the idea that my works can take people on a journey, both geographically and temporally. »
You have several sources of inspiration, including art history and nature. How do you translate these inspirations into your works?
It is a constant creative process in which I try to balance reflection on the object, aesthetics, design and a certain letting go. I like to remain as open as possible to any type of stimulation, whether it comes from a classical painting, an old traditional motif or a wildflower. My attention then turns to how to integrate this into my ceramics. I do not always follow the same pattern or creative process and prefer to welcome ideas as they come, then adapt to them.
What excites and appeals to you most about collaborating with other sectors, such as the plant world with By Charlot? How does this influence your creativity?
It's exciting to rethink my work to marry it to a new universe. Whether in terms of shape, size, or functionality. It was clear to me, as part of this collaboration with By Charlot, that I had to try to put my creativity at the service of what already exists. That is, to bring a unique touch to your product range, while seeking to enhance the plants without aesthetically "stifling" them.
What is your favorite plant? Do you have any tips for our readers on how to add plants to their homes?
I have a lot of plants in my studio; they are very important to me, and I pay a lot of attention to them. My main advice is to observe them regularly and not hesitate to move them around to find the location where they can fully flourish. If I had to choose one, I particularly appreciate succulents like Le Généreux for its hardiness and wild side that develops over time.
What makes you escape? Tell us about your Odyssey.
Books! I read a lot, and it allows me to travel intellectually, spiritually, and temporally. In the past, reading was forced upon me, but today, I appreciate the freedom of choice and the diversity of subjects. Just like in my work, books allow me to escape and feed my imagination.
