Traditional pottery painting requires passion, research
A pottery artist and painter stressed that the continuity of traditional arts depends primarily on passion and a strong research foundation, saying that sustained activity in the field is shaped by dedication to art, continuous learning, and an academic approach, without which the craft would struggle to survive.
Mahboubeh Kamalinejad, who has more than two decades of experience in pottery painting, said she has been active in the field since 2003, noting that many artists in her group also began their work out of personal interest and passion. In the early years, she added, projects were often carried out without payment, driven solely by a desire to learn and preserve the craft, according to chtn.ir.
Kamalinejad emphasized that what distinguishes her workshop is the integration of practical experience with a research-oriented perspective, where each artwork is developed through study, analysis, and fresh ideas rather than the repetition of established patterns.
She said innovation in this artistic field emerges from the blending of different historical styles and periods, with practitioners drawing on the rich heritage of traditional arts while incorporating their own creative vision to produce works that complement the form and aesthetic qualities of pottery.
The artist identified limited external communication and insufficient public exposure of artworks as key challenges in the field, adding that stronger media engagement and more effective promotion could play an important role in attracting young and aspiring artists.
She noted that in this environment, the artist’s priority is the creation of meticulous, research-based works rather than commercial considerations. Many pieces require months or even years of continuous effort before being showcased at domestic and international exhibitions.
Kamalinejad concluded by stressing that creating suitable platforms for promoting the art of pottery painting, strengthening research support, and investing in the training of future generations could provide a more dynamic path for preserving and advancing this traditional art form.