Celebrating craftsmanship
Marek Lipowski and Michelle Sosna design fine porcelain at the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin. In this interview the two creative artists tell us about their working day and what KPM means to them. Portraits by photographer Gene Glover.
Michelle Sosna is an apprentice in painting. At 23 she is one of the youngest employees in the company.
Why did you decide to pursue a career with KPM?
I have always wanted to pursue a creative profession. After graduating from high school I came across the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin.
What are your highlights during the working day?
Definitely, to have the fully painted and fired porcelain piece in front of me.
What special challenges do you face?
To produce the perfect colour of paint. I also have to learn new painting techniques and all related subjects in my apprenticeship.
"The daily challenge with brush and paint gives me great pleasure!"
Michelle Sosna
Marek Lipowski has been a sculptor at KPM since 1985. At the age of 65, he is a loyal employee of the manufacturer.
What does working at KPM mean to you?
At KPM, valuable and beautiful things are created every day, and I have the privilege of being involved in the creative process. For me, the factory is the most beautiful place to create.
How has the work changed over time?
The processes have become better, faster and more modern. Nevertheless, the attachment to tradition always remains.
What personal highlights have you encountered during your career?
The extensive reconstruction and composition of the CERES collection according to historical models.
For the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur (Royal Porcelain Manufacturing) Berlin, Storyboard created an elegant, sophisticated magazine: WEISS. It combines company history and product presentations with personal insights, conveying the values of a traditional company, while portraying KPM's contemporary progress. The second issue of WEISS was designed with an entirely black cover.
