Iva Polachova
Iva Polachova is a London-based ceramicist whose serene hand-built vessels embody a philosophy of essential beauty through simplicity. Based in Ladbroke Grove in the heart of Notting Hill, she lives just around the corner from Arte House; we found her beautiful work through this local connection to the area and her genuine love of our shop.Working with a deliberately limited palette of clay and white glazes, she creates fluid tableware and sculptural pieces that celebrate the honest dialogue between maker and material. Drawing inspiration from Constantin Brancusi's theories on the ‘essential’ in art, and Paul Klee's belief that artists must distill from nature, Iva's practice is rooted in the pursuit of clarity, balance, and tactile connection. Her work reflects Agnes Martin's understanding that ‘art is the concrete representation of our most subtle feelings,’ translating this philosophy into ceramics that radiate quiet contemplation and stillness.
Using traditional hand-building methods including coiling, pinching, and moulding — sometimes even incorporating natural forms like shells — Iva works with diverse clays ranging from coarse to refined porcelain. Her minimal toolkit of scrapers and rasp blades leaves gentle marks beneath her white glazes, creating subtly textured surfaces that serve as quiet reminders of the rhythmic making process of working with clay.
Her predominantly white palette is integral to her practice, simultaneously revealing and concealing the clay while emphasising the form and texture of each piece. Whether creating simple bowls and jugs or more sculptural vessels, Iva's work maintains a cohesive fluidity and serene calmness that speaks to those seeking beauty in form.
With qualifications including a BA Honours in History of Art, Iva has exhibited throughout the UK in London, Cornwall, and Belfast, with her work also shown internationally in Tokyo, Japan.
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