“Ceramika Artystyczna” Spółdzielnia Rękodzieła Artystycznego (Artistic Ceramics Handicraft Cooperative) started its activity in 1950 on Polna Street, in the buildings of the pre-war Julius Paul ceramics factory. Initially, the plant functioned within the structures of the Folk and Artistic Industry Headquarters. In 1990, the company was relocated to the premises at 23 T. Kościuszki St. Today, the plant, expanded and equipped with the latest technology for ceramics production, provides employment for several hundred people, which places it among the largest in the area.
The company’s products are highly valued for their quality and design. In addition to utility crockery, they include jewellery, furniture handles, cutting boards, figurines and sushi sets, which are extremely popular on Asian markets.
The dishes currently on offer were designed in terms of form by Bronisław Wolanin, artistic director and chief designer from 1964 to 2012, and Mariusz Ochocki, who has held this position since 2012. Among the most distinguished decorators are Maria Ciszewska, Anna Pasierbiewicz, Teresa Liana, Maria Starzyk, Maryla Iwicka, Irena Mączka and Jacek Chyła. The factory currently offers 1,400 ceramic forms and over 7,000 decorations signed by 24 designers.
The cooperative’s products have won many awards and distinctions at home and abroad. The company exports them to 27 countries worldwide. Some products have found their way into the collections of Polish national museums. In addition, they are eagerly used by film set designers, not only in Poland, but also abroad. The cooperative also carries out orders for the needs of various organisations and institutions, including the American CIA. It is also worth recalling that it made the service for serving the meal on board the plane on which Pope John Paul II flew from Poland to Rome in 1997.
