Things with a soul have a future

In a studio surrounded by clay, glazes, and tranquility, ceramic objects are created that are not only beautiful but also authentic. We spoke with Radek Mička, designer and founder of the VKUSE brand and the creative studio VisionFolk, about his journey to ceramics, the importance of craftsmanship, and the power of slowness.

What led you to ceramics?

Craftsmanship is in my blood – ceramics have been made in our family for several generations. But for a long time, I perceived it more as a backdrop. It wasn't until 2020 that I first sat down at the wheel, and I was immediately drawn in. Working with clay has something deeply calming about it. You are fully present, and we need that more than ever today.

Why did you decide to found VKUSE?

I wanted to create a brand that connects tradition with modern design. Ceramics in our country often remain either purely utilitarian or too decorative. I am interested in the middle ground – things that are beautiful but also fully functional. VKUSE is about balance, quality, and authenticity. And also about doing things slowly and meaningfully.

How would you describe the style of your ceramics?

Simplicity, naturalness, contrast of matte and gloss. I like calm colors, earthy tones, but sometimes I allow myself a bolder glaze – for example, with a blue or iridescent transition. Each piece is original. Even if I make the same shape, the glaze always lives its own life. That's what I enjoy most about it.

What materials do you prefer to work with?

I really enjoy working with local materials that are close to our environment. I primarily use stoneware clay, which is strong and has a beautiful texture, but I also like working with porcelain, which acquires a softness and purity after firing. Both materials allow me to create unique pieces with character. I finish them with natural glazes, often with transparent transitions that highlight the texture and color of the ceramics.

What is your relationship to the word "craft"?

Strong. For me, craft means humility, the opposite of instantaneity. It's a skill that cannot be rushed. Things created by hand carry time, effort, and concentration within them. And people recognize that – things with a soul have a future.

What inspires you?

Nature, silence, the landscape around me. Also architecture, textures, the light in the studio at a certain time of day. Sometimes the material itself inspires me – when I see how clay behaves in my hands, an idea emerges from it.

What can we look forward to next from VKUSE?

We plan to expand our product range with new shapes and techniques, but also with products that complement ceramics – for example, paintings, bags, or wooden kitchen accessories. We want to develop VKUSE as a brand that brings style, aesthetics, and tranquility to everyday life.

And a final question – what does "vkuse" mean to you personally?

To live with good taste ("vkuse" in Czech) means to be sensitive to detail, not to rush things, to choose quality over quantity. It's a balance between functionality and beauty. And most importantly – to do things with heart.