Günaydın Seramik! Highlighting Kütahya’s Ceramic Heritage

KÜTAHYA — In May 2023, Kütahya hosted Günaydın Seramik!, its local edition of Buongiorno Ceramica!, the international festival coordinated by the AiCC (Italian Association of Ceramic Cities). The event invited the public into workshops, studios and historic kilns to experience the city’s longstanding ceramic and tile tradition firsthand.

Activities were centered in the UNESCO-registered mansion on Germiyan Street, where participants observed and practiced pottery and çini techniques. Master wheel-thrower Mehmet Yıldırım introduced visitors to the fundamentals of working on the wheel, while artisans such as Emine Arabacı demonstrated classical tile-decoration methods. Informal demonstrations and conversations helped participants understand both the technical and cultural dimensions of the craft.

Beyond showcasing local expertise, the festival strengthened Kütahya’s connection to the broader network of AiCC ceramic cities, supporting future opportunities for collaboration, cultural exchange and creative-sector visibility.

Perhaps the most notable aspect of Günaydın Seramik was its emphasis on hands-on involvement. Attendees were encouraged to try shaping clay and decorating tiles themselves, offering a practical introduction to skills that have defined Kütahya’s artistic character for centuries. This participatory approach highlighted the city’s commitment to sustaining and sharing its ceramic heritage in an accessible and engaging way.