For Jono Pandolfi, the plate is your canvas. The New Jersey-based ceramic artist is the American visionary behind the eponymous range of artisan dinnerware that have graced esteemed restaurant tables across the nation, including Eleven Madison Park and the NoMad.

Wildly favored among top restaurateurs and Michelin-starred chefs, when he launched his handmade stoneware in 2004, Jono overlooked no detail—carefully considering the form, function, and aesthetic that bring us all together to celebrate life’s greatest occasions, no matter how big or small.

Now that we’re unable to dine out, he’s bringing the experience home with unique tableware from salad plates to pasta and cereal bowls. We put his pieces to the test and the collection is exceptionally durable, uniquely elevated, and brings even the simplest creations to life.

We chatted with Jono about how he got his start in ceramics, his creative process, and what we can look forward to in 2021.

What sparked your interest in ceramic-making? What drew you to ceramic as a medium?

I was originally attracted to the medium in high school. The elaborate process, the permanence of the creations. I was also drawn to functional ware as an aspiring potter.

Why do you like making dinnerware?

Functional ware was always central to my interest in ceramics. I have always liked making things for use, whether it be daily or more of an elevated occasion. Dinnerware is the ultimate functional ware to tackle as a potter because it's so demanding to produce, especially at scale. And as it is used on a daily basis, functionality and durability are really important.

Is there a purpose or message in your work?

If there's a message behind my work it is that beauty doesn't always come from embellishment. As my designs have become more popular, I have really solidified my sense as a designer and how I like our collection to present itself. Minimalism and the materials are always going to be central to my designs. We never intentionally incorporate handmade touches, what you see is the process showing, and I find that that is usually just enough.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration in minimal landscapes and geological formations, and particularly the textures and color palettes that come out of these types of places. And other than that, my main inspiration is the ceramic process itself. My exploration of the process has been going on for almost 30 years now. The little things that I learn and discover along the way, inspire my next designs and production ideas. Sharing the process with clients and our audience is a fun way for me to share my passion for the medium.

What is your best tip for emerging ceramic artists?

One tip I give many artists is, don't sell to stores, always try to sell direct to your end consumer. For me early on that was restaurants, and that business philosophy- of only selling direct to the end user of the product, stuck with me and it's why we're still here and doing extremely well.

What can we expect from your studio in 2021?

More cool explorations of the process like our Ombre releases, more limited edition collections, and more of the same great timeless dinnerware that we have always enjoyed making.

Bring Home The Collection

Kismet Trailblazer: Jono Pandolfi