Dear CastCeramics Team,
I was deeply moved and some tears fell from my eyes, when I read about your residency program.
It really seems custom made for me, blending my ceramic practice with my strong ecological values and conscious use of technology.
For 15 years, I've lived as a nomadic artist, traveling mainly by hitchhiking and bicycle to minimize my environmental footprint while learning local techniques around the world. My dedication to sustainability extends beyond travel – I'm vegan for ecological reasons, use only second-hand items, and actively participate in environmental movements.
My ceramics journey began in 2014-2015 during a year-long scholarship in Indonesia, where I studied traditional ceramics and wood carving. This experience resulted in a deep appreciation for how craft traditions connect to cultural identity. A significant milestone came in 2020 when I spent six months in Mallorca, Spain, tutored by a Russian artist through the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program.
My practice has grown to include teaching and community engagement. In 2022, while in Guatemala, I offered ceramic classes to locals and international visitors, revealing clay's universal language and its ability to bridge cultural differences. Most recently, in March 2025, I volunteered with "Fabbrica del Faró" for 5 weeks in Apulia, Italy, producing pieces to support marginalized communities and offer them the opportunity to learn an artisanal job. This work aligns perfectly with CastCeramics' focus on inclusivity and social impact.
My technical expertise lies in traditional ceramic methods – wheel throwing, hand modeling, and sculptural techniques, and I am eager to expand my knowledge into digital fabrication and 3D printing. I see technology as a tool to be used consciously on our advantage, reducing the time of creation, while adding new frontiers and possibilities.
My academic studies related to Architecture and Engineering, so I'm really comfortable with digital drawing and planning.
Living a low-income, minimalist lifestyle focused on experiences over possessions, funding myself with seasonal jobs and scholarships, I appreciate CastCeramics' commitment to economical accessibility and support for artists facing economic barriers like me. The program's emphasis on sustainable travel resonates with my values and increases my enthusiasm to participate.
The itinerant nature of this residency – moving through Italy, Austria, and Poland – complements my belief in the value of cultural immersion, and my love for travelling.
I envision creating pieces that honor traditional techniques while exploring innovative approaches to ecological consciousness through art. I am fully available for the entire period and believe that my combination of traditional ceramic expertise, interest in technology, commitment to social causes, and sustainable lifestyle makes me an ideal candidate for the CastCeramics residency.
Thank you for considering my application.
I look forward to meeting you in person at the end of August.
Sincerely
Davide Vadala'
Davide Vadalà
