Bisila Noha: Celebrated Ceramicist and Recipient of the Tacchini Prize
Overview
Spanish-Equatoguinean ceramicist Bisila Noha has been awarded the esteemed Tacchini Prize, established by the Italian furniture brand in collaboration with Fondazione Officine Saffi, which promotes contemporary ceramics. This prize highlights the blending of modern artistic exploration and design, emphasizing materials as vital forms of research and expression.
Exhibition
As part of the award, Noha will have her own exhibition titled ‘A Tactile Story’ at Casa Tacchini in Milan, running until 13 November 2026. This showcase features her expressive ceramic works alongside Tacchini furniture. Notable pieces include hanging vessels that appear cracked, standing sculptures, and a vibrant pot displayed in the showroom.
Artistic Background
Born in 1988 in Spain and now residing in London, Noha transitioned from a career in advertising to ceramics in 2016, quickly gaining attention through various international residencies and exhibitions. Her work is featured in prestigious institutions like the V&A Museum and the High Museum of Art in Atlanta.
Currently, she is an artist-in-residence at the Sarabande Foundation in London, participating in notable exhibitions such as the Venice Biennale and at the Princeton University Art Museum.
Cultural Exploration
Noha’s approach to ceramics is deeply rooted in significant historical and cultural research. She has conducted residencies in Nigeria and Senegal, focusing on the history of women’s contributions to pottery. For her, ceramics represents community and feminism more than just aesthetics.
Notable Projects
- Baney Clay: This project used clay from her father’s village, blending it with porcelain to explore her dual identity.
- Searching for Kouame Kakahá: In this project, she sought out an Ivory Coast potter to draw connections between the erasure of female artisans and her own journey.
- Ile Ọkàn (House of the Soul): This exhibition reflects on West African culture, showcasing functional and sculptural stools as part of her exploration of communal crafts.
Recent Work
Noha’s exploration of bronze began in 2022 in Benin City, allowing her to reflect on historical practices related to women, particularly regarding lost-wax casting. Her upcoming project, The Lost Bronze, will feature at the 1-54 art fair in London.
Future Endeavors
As she wraps up her residency and exhibition, Noha plans to set up a new studio in Dalston, London, and work on future projects in Madrid. At the core of her practice remains a commitment to exploring history and place through the craft of making.
Exhibition Information
- Exhibition: ‘A Tactile Story’ by Bisila Noha
- Location: Casa Tacchini, Largo Treves 5, Milan
- Dates: Until 13 November 2026
For more on her work and exhibitions, you can follow her journey through platforms like Instagram and dedicated art exhibitions.
