Floor Vase

Miroslav Smíšek’s vase may have been physically shaped on the wheel, but the personal philosophy beneath the glaze was formed by the experiences of war. After surviving life in war-torn Czechoslovakia, Smíšek came to New Zealand where he developed a philosophy dedicated to a life of creativity. The potter explained his intentions: ‘I have a desire to create beautiful things that will speak to other people and become part of their lives’.

This vase was made in Nelson in the 1950s and reflects Smíšek’s newfound freedom from the commercial potteries where he was previously employed. In the Tasman region he established his own studio, becoming New Zealand’ first independent studio potter. He also discovered a region rich in different clays; there was the Puramahoi fireclay deposit, a china clay deposit, and a red clay at Moutere Hill. The natural environment also informed the shapes of his work, his use of line and the different coloured glazes which recall colours found in the bush, rivers and coastlines around New Zealand. During the 1960s, Smíšek worked alongside influential potters Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada in England Japan, sharing in their creative philosophies and openness. The vase is characteristically understated with Smíšek preferring the subtle over the flamboyant.

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