There are companies that tell their story. And there are companies that continue to write it every day. For more than 500 years, ceramics have been handcrafted on the shores of Lake Traunsee. Generations of ceramic painters, mould-makers and glazing specialists have passed on their knowledge, thereby shaping one of Europe’s most significant manufacturers. What began in 1492 is now far more than a company steeped in tradition – it is a place where craftsmanship, art and social responsibility come together. For although every piece is still made by hand in Gmunden, the manufactory has long since adopted an international outlook and is looking to the future. Between the kiln and the painting horn, famous classics such as ‘Green Flamed’ and ‘Deer’ are created, alongside extraordinary art objects, limited editions and entirely new forms of ceramic expression.
Craftsmanship as the foundation for innovation
Anyone walking through the workshops of Gmundner Keramik soon realises that here, tradition is not merely preserved, but lived. Up to 60 individual steps transform clay into a carefully crafted, one-of-a-kind piece. Particularly impressive is the flame-firing technique, which is passed down exclusively in Gmunden and is recognised as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. The people are at the heart of the workshop. They preserve the knowledge of the ancient production techniques, whilst at the same time developing them further and passing on their experience to the next generations. Together with the apprentices and through creative collaboration with artists, extraordinary projects are brought to life from the initial idea to the finished piece. In this way, the expertise that has developed over centuries forms the basis for a constant stream of new ideas. “I am thrilled when centuries-old knowledge gives rise to something that moves people today. For me, that is precisely where the future of Gmundner Keramik lies,” emphasises owner Markus Friesacher.
Another example of this forward-thinking approach is the collaboration with Kevin Scott, Microsoft’s Chief Technology Officer and founder of Behind the Tech Labs. Together, they are exploring new ways to make production processes more sustainable, drive innovation and show young people how craftsmanship and technology can shape the future.
When art meets ceramics
Hardly any other ceramics manufacturer combines traditional craftsmanship and contemporary art so consistently. With the Academy of Ceramics Gmunden, Gmundner Keramik has created a place where the multifaceted nature of the material is fully exploited. The Artists in Residence programme brings a wide variety of perspectives from all over the world to Gmunden, resulting in ceramic works ranging from sculptures to experimental installations. Among the artists who develop their works in collaboration with the manufactory’s specialists are Kim Simonsson, Elmar Trenkwalder and Erwin Wurm. Collaborations with the MAK Vienna and the Wiener Keramik Edition also combine historical craftsmanship with modern art. This results in everyday objects as well as collector’s items, sculptures and strictly limited editions.
Ceramics bring cultures together
The fact that Gmundner Keramik, despite its deep regional roots, also looks far beyond Austria’s borders is particularly evident in Namibia. Through the EMF Namibia Foundation, established in 2025, Elisabeth and Markus Friesacher are committed to supporting the San, one of Africa’s oldest ethnic groups. “Working with the San reminds us of what true craftsmanship is all about: telling stories, preserving identity and bringing people together. These are precisely the values we wish to promote through Gmundner Keramik,” says Markus Friesacher. Education, health, agriculture, language and art form the five pillars of the project. At the same time, the collaboration with local artists produces ceramic collections whose designs reflect Namibia’s landscape and culture. A portion of the proceeds goes directly back to the foundation. In this way, ceramics bring people and cultures together across continents.
The Gmunden way of life
Gmundner Keramik continues to build on its cultural heritage every day. New glazes, innovative techniques, art projects and bespoke creations emerge from the interplay of experience and curiosity. This is precisely where the manufactory’s particular strength lies: it is aware of its origins, preserves traditional craftsmanship without standing still, and actively shapes the future. As a result, Gmundner Keramik is now far more than simply Austria’s best-known ceramics brand. It stands for authenticity, quality and the conviction that genuine craftsmanship remains relevant even in the 21st century. “Gmundner Keramik is now far more than just tableware. We are a manufactory, an art workshop, a training centre and an international meeting place all in one. It is this diversity that brings our brand to life,” sums up Markus Friesacher.
