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One of the few in Europe brave enough to make bonsai pottery a full-time career, Julien Le Guen, the artist behind Terrajade, is a respected French bonsai ceramicist whose creations and approach to pot making has earned him a growing following. Born in Paris in 1987, Julien began his journey with bonsai in 2006 and transitioned into professional bonsai ceramist by 2018. He has since been crafting pots full-time, with a focus on individuality, creativity, and harmony with the tree.
Julien creates each piece by hand—avoiding moulds—to ensure every pot is unique and characterful. His forms are intentionally sober, designed not to overpower the tree, but often feature subtle scars or marks, to emulate the character of the tree. His electric-fired kiln allows for works up to 68cm in size, and he dreams of building a wood-fired kiln to expand his creative possibilities.
Glaze research is at the heart of Julien’s practice. He is particularly passionate about using natural ash, a material he finds endlessly inspiring. "Ash is incredible," he says. “It contains all the chemical elements a glaze needs.” His glazes, often using ash from Oak or various other types of wood, bring unpredictability and life to his work—making each pot not only functional but full of soul.
In 2021–2022, Julien spent a year travelling the world with his family, introducing his daughter to global cultures and connecting with potters worldwide. Julien’s work reflects a deep respect for nature, craftsmanship, and the quiet dialogue between tree and container. Through Terrajade, he invites collectors and enthusiasts to slow down, look closer, and appreciate the beauty found in subtle imperfections and natural materials shaped by hand and fire.
EBPC member artist since 2026.
Contact EBPC
E-mail: Julien Le Guen: [email protected]
Website: Terrajade: www.terrajade.com
Commissions can be requested through us here.
E-mail: Julien Le Guen: [email protected]
Website: Terrajade: www.terrajade.com
Commissions can be requested through us here.
Potter Showcase
Terrajade
Some examples of past works from Julien Le Guen
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The ‘European Bonsai Potter Collective’ is brought to you by Alex Rudd and 50+ leading artists:
www.EuropeanBonsaiPotterCollective.Com.
Member's works will regularly be available for sale in the EBPC Shop
www.EuropeanBonsaiPotterCollective.Com.
Member's works will regularly be available for sale in the EBPC Shop
