Foreword

At Cor Unum we believe that the art of ceramics means more than clay and fire: it represents a way of telling stories, making connections and giving meaning to the world around us. The history and the story of Cor Unum is long and eventful, spanning more than seventy years. Cor Unum is a ceramics studio in ’s-Hertogenbosch where, with a great deal of passion and craftsmanship, beautiful ceramic work by nationally and internationally known designers and artists is produced.

Cor Unum – literally, one heart – is supported by many: by ambassadors and students, by designers and volunteers, by people distanced from the employment market and professionals. All share one common ideal: everyone deserves a place, everyone has a talent and everyone can contribute to making the world a bit nicer.

When Marc Mulders started his work period with us, we knew that something special was about to take shape. Mulders is an artist who, for decades now, has explored the realm in which the earthly meets the spiritual. In his paintings, stained-glass windows and now in ceramics, he searches for light, transformation and inspiration. His time at Cor Unum brought this quest in direct contact with our core values: the merging of craftsmanship, inclusivity and artistic innovation.

In our workspace in ’s-Hertogenbosch – the beating heart of our enterprise – Mulders collaborated with our diverse team of makers. Together they gave shape to sculptures that touch on age-old themes such as life, death and rebirth. Arising from this were powerful ceramic images that resonate with universal issues while also being deeply personal and attesting to a rich imagination.

It was remarkable to see that a strong bond developed between the artist and our own people, all of whom were moved and inspired in different ways by Mulders's presence. His enthusiasm was infectious and motivated everyone to bring out the best in themselves.

For Cor Unum this collaboration shows what can come about when artists and craftsmen find each other in a shared love of material and meaning. We are proud that Marc has carried out his exploration of ceramics at Cor Unum. What has been produced with us reflects not only his handwriting but also the soul of our studio – a place where craftsmanship, collaboration and inspiration fuse and bring art to life.