In the quaint town of Saint Amand les Eaux, France, there lies a rich tradition of ceramic production that has now become a lost craft. Street artist Manolo Mesa has beautifully captured the essence of this lost tradition in his recent work. His painting portrays a traditional soup tureen, found in the city museum, which holds great significance for the local community.
Image copyright Manolo Mesa
“As in many other places, in Saint Amand there was also a traditional ceramic production now lost… Many families still keep these pots, and on Sundays they take out this soup tureen to eat with the family. I would like to think of a meeting, or a meeting point when painting this pot that I found in the city museum.”
Manolo Mesa (translated)
The soup tureen represents more than just a piece of ceramic; it symbolises a meeting point for families, a vessel that held cherished meals, and a connection to the town’s cultural heritage. It serves as a tangible link to the past, evoking memories of shared meals and traditional gatherings.
Image copyright Manolo Mesa
Through his art, Manolo Mesa invites us to reflect on the significance of this lost craft and the stories it holds. His painting captures the nostalgia and reverence for the bygone era of vibrant ceramic production in Saint Amand les Eaux.
Image copyright Manolo Mesa
The family gathering on Sundays allow locals to cherish the stories and traditions that continue to inspire future generations while still connect to the towns past.
Image copyright Manolo Mesa
As we admire Manolo Mesa’s work, we are reminded of the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural traditions. The lost craft of ceramic production in Saint Amand les Eaux lives on through the art and memories it evokes, serving as a poignant tribute to the town’s rich heritage.
Image copyright Manolo Mesa