Exhibition Birds of Happiness Keep Growing

When Ceramics Speak – From Creation to Exhibition

The journey of creating ceramics is one of patience, uncertainty, and excitement. Every stage has its own magic. It all begins with an idea. Then comes shaping the clay, drying, the first firing, glazing, and additional firings. The final moment of creation is that fluttering instant when the finished piece emerges from the kiln.

A New Life Begins at Home

But this is just the beginning of its real journey. A ceramic piece now becomes part of the world, finding a home and a new purpose. Sometimes, it settles on a living room shelf, serving as a daily reminder of the beauty of handmade art and uniqueness. Such pieces bring warmth and character to interiors, making spaces more personal and inviting. Handmade ceramics are often used both decoratively and functionally—unique vases, bowls, and candleholders add a special charm to any space.

Unique Gifts with a Story

Ceramic pieces frequently travel as unique gifts, carrying with them a story and emotion. Gifting a handmade ceramic object symbolizes care and appreciation for the recipient. These gifts become lasting reminders of special moments and connections between people. “Birds of Happiness,” handcrafted with love, bring joy to those who receive them, becoming symbols of positive energy and happiness. Each piece is original and one of a kind, made in Croatia with special attention to detail.

Art in the Workplace

In business environments, ceramic artworks can introduce a touch of art and inspiration. Placing a sculpture or decorative piece in an office space creates a more pleasant atmosphere, fostering creativity and productivity. Art in the workplace can serve as a motivator and a reminder of the importance of aesthetics in daily life. Handmade ceramics from Croatia are increasingly sought after as corporate gifts due to their uniqueness and artisanal craftsmanship.

Ceremonial and Meditative Use

Ceramic objects, such as Tibetan bowls, are used in meditative and ceremonial practices. They mark the beginning and end of meditation and are used in various rituals, symbolizing harmony and balance. Handmade pieces can serve as sacred objects in rituals or simply help focus the mind and create inner peace. In mindfulness practice, unique ceramic items can aid concentration and cultivate a calm environment.

Reminders of Mindfulness

In a fast-paced world, ceramic objects can serve as reminders of the importance of being present in the moment. Their texture, shape, and weight can ground us in the now, encouraging mindfulness and tranquility. Holding or observing such an object can be a simple yet effective way to practice mindfulness. Hand-shaped clay carries a special energy, as each unique gift bears the imprint of its creator, making it even more meaningful.

Exhibitions in Galleries

Many ceramic artists showcase their works in galleries, where they meet the audience and other artistic creations. Such exhibitions allow artists to share their vision and creativity with the broader community, while visitors get the chance to experience and interpret these works in their own way. In a world of mass production, original, handmade ceramic pieces from Croatia are becoming a valuable part of artistic heritage and culture.

Croatian Ceramics – A Blend of Tradition and Contemporary Design

Ceramics made in Croatia blend a rich tradition with modern design. The art of shaping clay by hand has been present in our culture for centuries, and today, it is carried into a contemporary context through unique ceramic collections. Whether it’s decorative pieces, unique vessels, or symbolic figures like the “Birds of Happiness,” each piece carries the spirit of creativity and dedication to detail.

Every ceramic object, carefully crafted with soul, continues its life far beyond the studio where it was born. Perhaps its story will last for decades, maybe even outlive its creator, but one thing is certain—its journey does not end when it leaves the kiln. That’s when its true life begins.

My Work in 2025 Exhibitions

This year has started with exhibitions where my works have found their place. My ceramic painting ”Children’s Play” was selected for the juried exhibition of the City of Zagreb and is traveling through Zagreb’s public libraries along with the rest of the exhibit.

An unglazed bust with a bird on its head, titled Waiting for Happiness, was part of the 43rd-anniversary exhibition of the Croatian Fine Arts Society. With its double meaning and multiple interpretations, the bird on the head serves as a reminder that happiness resides within us, in our own minds. The bust remains unglazed, symbolically waiting for the happiness that comes with its completion—or, on a broader human level, the happiness we believe will be ours once we achieve a particular goal.

At the international mask exhibition in Krapina, featuring 160 artists from various countries, my mask ”Svarog” is also on display. Svarog, a figure from Slavic mythology, is depicted as the God of Fire and the Sun, fitting for this late-winter season when the sun’s power begins to grow.

A particularly significant moment for me is participating in the international juried exhibition Touch at the Prigorje Museum, where I am exhibiting the bust ”Don’t Touch”. This exhibition explores the theme of touch—an essential element in working with clay, as well as in human interaction.

Upcoming Fourth Solo Exhibition

What excites me most is my upcoming fourth solo exhibition, ”Birds of Happiness Keep Growing”. This exhibition is special because it celebrates the growth of the Birds of Happiness, which, due to a chance encounter, became a recognizable symbol of freedom, hope, joy, and a deep connection with nature.

It all started with an unusual moment—over three days, a large bird watched me through my studio window. I watched it; it watched me. My fingers instinctively began shaping what my eyes were seeing. That’s how the first bird came to be, then the second, then the third. At a time when people were facing many restrictions, my birds were flying freely across the world. I realized how essential freedom is to happiness. The birds soared freely, bringing joy, and thus, they became the Birds of Happiness.

Each Bird of Happiness is shaped by hand from a lump of clay—no molds, just my fingers and the energy of the universe. They are the perfect gift, a handmade token of thoughtfulness carrying a deeper message. They are not just beautiful presents for loved ones or home decorations—they are symbols, messengers, visual reminders that enrich spaces and bring a sense of peace. Each Bird of Happiness has its own name, character, and story.

The Journey of the Birds of Happiness Through Past Exhibitions

The Birds of Happiness have been exhibited in numerous group exhibitions and three solo ones. Each solo exhibition brought new experiences and gradually opened doors to an audience that recognizes and embraces them.

My first solo exhibition was held at the Croatian Fine Arts Society, a selling exhibition where many Birds of Happiness found their forever homes.

The second solo exhibition took them to the Dubec Library, a place of storytelling and community, where they became part of a warm and shared space.

At the third solo exhibition, in the Gallery of the Special Police, they continued to spread their message of freedom and individuality. Their journey will continue at the fourth solo exhibition. Each of these exhibitions has been a special milestone in my artistic journey, reaffirming that art does not end in the kiln—it begins its true life in encounters with people, their emotions, and the stories they weave into it.

More About the Upcoming Exhibition

In the heart of Zagreb, at Tratinska Street 15, from March 17 to 29, the Birds of Happiness Keep Growing as they once again find their space in the beautiful gallery of the Croatian Fine Arts Society. The exhibition is open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 7 PM, with private viewings available on Saturdays by appointment.

I look forward to sharing this special moment with you!