Financial Times

Edmund de Waal in his studio. Image Credit: Alzbeta Jaresova.

TEFAF TALKS

A Life in Ceramics: Artist and Author Edmund de Waal in Conversation

From history and family to place and poetry, explore key influences on Edmund de Waal’s work

Slide 16 9 93

Overview

Edmund de Waal leads a multifaceted life, blending his roles as an artist and a bestselling author. His renowned book, The Hare with the Amber Eyes: A Hidden Inheritance (2010), highlights the captivating story of his family’s netsuke collection which was passed down through five generations of the Ephrussi family, illustrating their history in meticulous detail. This thoughtful attention to detail and deep engagement with history are omnipresent in both his artistic practice and his literary work.

This conversation explores the key influences on De Waal’s work, such as history, personal heritage, and poetry. It also touches upon his deep connection to art and craft, emphasizing how he advocates for experiencing art across different eras and geographies. Furthermore, it engages in a dialogue about cultural stewardship and the impact of art on our understanding of the world.

TEFAF Talks are interactive panel discussions exploring today’s most fascinating topics in the worlds of art, antiques, and design. Paired with leading content partners, these talks showcase the knowledge of leading experts in the broader TEFAF community. This talk is presented in partnership with the Financial Times and moderated by Josh Spero, Wealth Editor, Financial Times.

Panelists

Josh Spero
Josh Spero Wealth Editor, Financial Times
JAMIESON Edmundde Waal31 SF edit for web Claire Tillotson
Edmund de Waal Artist and Author