Alexandre Kostanda (1921-2007)

Alexandre Kostanda was a Polish-born ceramist who became a significant figure in Vallauris, France. After apprenticing with Louis Giraud in 1936, he taught pottery in Biot and later at Longchamps, where he trained the founders of the Accolay ateliers. In 1953, he established his own workshop in Vallauris, blending local clay with stoneware from Cluny. Known for his technical mastery and minimalist designs, his work evolved from rustic, floral motifs to abstract styles, often painted by his mother. Kostanda's creations, ranging from functional pottery to sculptural pieces, reveal a deep exploration of form and material.