Conversations in Craft: The World of GAZAR
In a world that often prioritizes speed over soul, GAZAR emerges as a brand rooted in craftsmanship, materiality, and the quiet beauty of handmade objects. At its core is founder Midheta Agić, a potter and designer whose work transforms raw, natural materials into timeless pieces that balance form and function.
In Conversation with founder Midheta Agić
For Midheta, working with clay is more than a craft—it’s a dialogue between hands and earth, tradition and innovation. With a deep appreciation for texture, structure, and organic forms, she creates objects that invite a slower, more intentional way of living. We sat down with her to explore the inspiration, process, and philosophy behind GAZAR.
Could you share the last art-related screenshot on your phone? What inspired you to capture it, and how does it echo your creative journey?
“The last art-related screenshot on my phone is probably a beautifully designed mid-century home or an interior with striking textures. I’m always drawn to spaces where form, material, and colors interact harmoniously. Architecture and interiors deeply influence my ceramic work, especially in how I approach shape and proportion. My creative journey is shaped by this constant observation – translating structural elegance into fluid, organic ceramic pieces.”
Tell us a little bit about you. Why, or perhaps more justly, how did you become a potter and a designer? What drew you to clay as form of expression?
“My journey into the world of pottery and design began with a simple curiosity and a deep appreciation for the beauty of handmade objects. However it wasn’t until I stumbled upon a pottery class in my community center that everything clicked into place.
From the moment I sat down at the wheel and felt the cool malleable clay beneath my fingers I was hooked.
There was something incredibly therapeutic and magical about the process of shaping and molding the clay into various forms. Over time my passion for pottery expanded to include other natural materials as well.Â
I found inspiration in the textures, colors and inherent beauty of materials like stone, concrete and fibers and began incorporating them into my designs. What started as a simple curiosity had blossomed into a full-fledged creative pursuit and I knew that I had found my calling.”
What inspires you the most in ceramic craftsmanship? Feel free to share a personal story that illustrates one of your most memorable moments of inspiration.
“What inspires me the most in ceramic craftsmanship is the connection between spaces and objects – the way homes, interiors, and the blending of furniture and decor can create a feeling of harmony. I find endless inspiration in how different materials and shapes work together to form a cohesive, inviting space.
One of my most memorable moments of inspiration came while opening the kiln after a particularly challenging firing. I had been experimenting with a new glaze technique, uncertain of how it would react. When I finally saw the results, the surface had developed an organic, almost watercolor-like effect, something I couldn’t have fully predicted. That moment reinforced why I love ceramics – each piece carries the mark of its own journey, making it truly one of a kind.”
GAZAR is steadily emerging as a meaningful brand. What has the journey been like for you as both an artisan and an entrepreneur?
“The journey with GAZAR has been both exciting and challenging, and it’s been an incredible learning process. As an artisan, my focus is on creating pieces that reflect my artistic vision – every shape, texture, and glaze is carefully crafted with intention. But as an entrepreneur, I also need to think about logistics, branding, and growth. It’s a constant balancing act between staying true to my craft and adapting to the demands of running a business.
Building GAZAR has allowed me to connect with people who appreciate the artistry and uniqueness of handmade ceramics. Seeing my work being embraced globally and watching the brand evolve has been one of the most fulfilling aspects. The journey has taught me a lot about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of trusting the process.”
How do you define craftsmanship, and why is it so vital to your work?
“To me, craftsmanship is the art of paying attention to every detail, from the initial design to the final touches. It’s about the integrity of the materials, the precision in the process, and the care that goes into every step of creation. Craftsmanship is not just about making something functional; it’s about infusing soul into each piece, ensuring that it carries the maker’s intention and energy.
It’s vital to my work because it’s the foundation of everything I do. Each piece I create is a reflection of my commitment to excellence, and it’s through craftsmanship that I can transform raw materials into art. Without that level of care and dedication, the work loses its depth. Craftsmanship is the thread that connects every design to its purpose and the essence of who I am as a maker.”
Walk us through your creative process—what are the essential steps that transform your visions into tangible art?
“My creative process begins with a feeling or an idea, often sparked by something I’ve seen, experienced, or imagined. Once I have that inspiration, I start sketching and planning, but I allow the material to guide me as much as my vision does. Clay has a way of suggesting its own direction, and I embrace that spontaneity in the process.
The first step is to create a rough model or prototype, usually by hand-building or using molds, to bring the form into a more tangible shape. From there, I refine the piece, paying close attention to proportions, texture, and surface treatments. The next step is glazing, where I can experiment with colors and finishes to create the desired effect. It’s a delicate balance of control and unpredictability, as the glaze can behave differently during firing.
The moment when the piece feels finished and aligns with my initial vision is incredibly rewarding. It’s the harmony of patience, experimentation, and craftsmanship that transforms my ideas into tangible art.”
In what ways has traditional Serbian (or Adriatic) pottery shaped your creative vision? How do you balance honoring heritage with embracing innovation?
“The bold simplicity of shapes, the deep connection to the earth, and the handcrafting methods used in these regions have instilled in me a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and a commitment to preserving these ancient practices.
However, as an artist, I also feel the need to push boundaries and experiment with new forms, materials, and techniques. I believe in honoring tradition by integrating it into contemporary designs – infusing modern aesthetics while respecting the roots of the craft. It’s a delicate balance: I draw inspiration from the natural textures, organic forms, and functional beauty of traditional pottery, but I allow innovation to shape how these elements are reinterpreted and presented in my work.
For me, innovation doesn’t mean abandoning the past; it means evolving it, allowing traditional techniques to inform and inspire new creations that can speak to both the past and the present.”
How do you see your work impacting the local community and ensuring the longevity of ceramic traditions in your region?
“I see my work as part of a larger effort to preserve and revitalize the ceramic traditions in my region, while also contributing to the growth of a local community that values craftsmanship and art.
I actively engage with local artisans and craftsmen, sharing knowledge and collaborating on projects to keep the techniques alive. Additionally, by creating pieces that resonate with both local and international audiences, I am helping to foster a greater appreciation for the unique ceramic heritage of the region.
Ensuring the longevity of ceramic traditions means finding a balance between honoring the past and embracing modernity. Through GAZAR, I hope to inspire others – whether they are young artisans or design enthusiasts – to connect with these traditions and continue to push the boundaries of what ceramic art can be.”
Are there particular artists or movements—be they regional or contemporary—that have influenced you? We’d love to hear about the names that resonate with you.
“Lately, the Bauhaus movement has been a significant influence on my work, particularly in how I approach design with a focus on functionality and simplicity. The movement’s emphasis on clean lines, geometric forms, and the seamless integration of art and technology resonates deeply with my own creative process. Artists like Marianne Brandt and Wilhelm Wagenfeld, who blended craftsmanship with industrial design, have inspired me to view ceramics not only as aesthetic objects but as pieces that serve a practical role in daily life.
The Bauhaus ideal of combining form with function is something I’ve been exploring more recently in my ceramics. I aim to create pieces that are both visually compelling and highly functional, blending into modern interiors while maintaining their artistic integrity. The movement’s exploration of materiality also influences how I work with clay – using its natural properties to form minimalistic, refined designs.”
What does sustainability mean to you, and how do you integrate it into your creative ethos and production process?
“Sustainability, to me, means creating with a deep respect for the environment and the future, ensuring that the materials, processes, and products I use have minimal impact on the planet. It’s about making thoughtful choices that contribute to the well-being of the world, not just in the products I create, but in the entire process – from sourcing materials to the final piece.
In my creative process, I integrate sustainability by working with natural, non-toxic materials like clay and porcelain, which are inherently sustainable.
Ultimately, sustainability isn’t just about the materials or the production methods—it’s about creating pieces that stand the test of time, both in terms of quality and design, ensuring they continue to bring value for years to come.”
In your view, how does GAZAR’s philosophy align with WAGA’s commitment to heritage, sustainability, and impeccable craftsmanship?
“Just like WAGA, I believe in honoring tradition while pushing for innovation.
In essence, both GAZAR and WAGA share a common vision of preserving craftsmanship, embracing sustainable practices, and celebrating the beauty of heritage in contemporary design.”
What future projects or new directions are you most excited about for GAZAR?
“One of the projects I’m most excited about for GAZAR is the upcoming launch of a new collection that will be a departure from my previous works. This collection will be very much different – more vivid in color and design, with a stronger emphasis on functionality. While my earlier pieces have focused on elegant, minimalist forms, this new direction will explore bolder, more dynamic designs that are not only visually striking but also highly practical for everyday use.
Additionally, I’m working on expanding GAZAR’s product range beyond ceramics, incorporating elements like lighting into the collection. This direction will allow me to explore the intersection of functional art and design, creating pieces that not only look beautiful but also serve a purpose in people’s homes and spaces.
Lastly, I’m excited about taking GAZAR’s work to international stages, showcasing pieces at design events and collaborating with designers from different cultures to bring new perspectives into my craft.
There’s so much on the horizon, and I can’t wait to bring these visions to life and continue pushing the boundaries of what GAZAR can become.”
Your work is placing our region on the global map of fine craftsmanship—how do you see your role, and our role as a whole in the realm of artisan brands, in enhancing the regions’ global reputation in contemporary craftsmanship & design?
“I see my role, and the role of artisan brands in the region, as integral to shaping the future of contemporary craftsmanship and design on a global scale. By creating unique, high-quality pieces that blend traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, I believe we have the power to showcase the rich cultural heritage of our region while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fine craftsmanship.
Collectively, artisan brands in our region have a responsibility to elevate the global perception of our craftsmanship, showing the world that we offer not just beautiful objects, but well-made, meaningful pieces that have a story and a deep connection to the land and its traditions. By collaborating, sharing knowledge, and promoting our work on international platforms, we can enhance our region’s reputation as a place where artistry and design thrive.
It’s an exciting time, and I’m grateful to be part of this movement that is reshaping how the world views our region’s contribution to contemporary craftsmanship.”
Finally, if you were to choose one WAGA piece that speaks to your artistic soul, which would it be, and why?
“If I were to choose one WAGA piece that speaks to my artistic soul, it would be the KULE candleholders. What I love about this piece is its perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication. The clean, geometric forms feel timeless, yet there’s a warmth and organic quality in the wood that speaks to a deeper, natural connection.”
“True craftsmanship is about shaping connections, stories, and a legacy that stands the test of time.”
