Escaping the hustle of city life, artist Birute Si found solace in the authentic village of Kernave. For the past five years, this charming countryside has been her home, where she seamlessly blends the tranquility of rural living with the artistry of her ceramic workshop. In her spare moments, she nurtures a garden filled with local vegetables and vibrant flowers. Meet the talented ceramicist and artist – Birute Si.
Birute, how would you describe yourself?
I see myself as a carefully crafted creation of God, unique and having the same values as every human being.
How did ceramics come into your life, and what have you discovered in it ?
From a young age, I was drawn to creating beauty, particularly in three-dimensional forms. I have always enjoyed hands-on crafts – whether cutting hair or sewing clothes – but here was a part of me that longed to explore something new. When I discovered clay, I found not only a new medium but also a sense of peace and relaxation.
What do you think makes your ceramics stand out from those of the other creators ?
That’s a tough question. I often hear people say my work reflects a touch of Scandinavian minimalism. I believe the objects I create evoke different emotions in different people, and I cherish that space for interpretation. To me, that gap is where creativity thrives for the end-user.
Do you have any daily rituals ?
My most common ritual these days is convincing my child to sleep a little longer in the morning! Balancing motherhood, home life, and my workshop is often about finding harmony between these words.
What kind of environment inspires you, Birute ?
Workshop spaces, without a doubt. My own workshop is a space my mind quiets, and my hands begin to work almost instinctively.
Which would you choose: lake or sea? And why?
The sea, because of its vastness and sense of boundless space.
What do you notice most when interacting with others?
I’m particularly sensitive to people’s mood.
Imagine a life without limitations, fears and beliefs - what would be your vision of life ?
It would be a very strange existence. I believe that fear and limitations are not inherently negative; they can protect and serve us depending on how we treat them. And it would also be difficult without beliefs. Many things in our lives are based on faith. We live in faith and not in certainty that the future will be better.