Elena Urbani

Elena Urbani, originally from Rome but already deeply linked to the Viterbo community, discovered her passion for ceramics at the age of six, which changed her life forever. Since that day, she has never stopped studying, practicing, and loving ceramics, while also sharing that love with others.

After attending an artistic high school and various courses in Rome, she graduated in Conservation of Cultural Heritage from the University of Tuscia and continued to specialize in decoration, modeling, painting, and education.

In 2005, Elena opened her first ceramics workshop in Tuscia, specifically in Bomarzo. Here, she focused her research primarily on the ancient and increasingly rare technique of "engobbio". This method, known for its complexity and slowness, does not use glazes; instead, it involves layering clay upon clay over several days, ultimately protected by a light coat of vitreous material.

Elena believes it is essential to conduct experiments rooted in the material and memory of the place, ensuring that tradition is not reduced to mere folklore. This philosophy is reflected in her logo, which features a leaf inspired by archaic styles.

She worked as a ceramic artist across the Marche and Lazio regions until 2020, when she opened her current studio, Lab33, in Viterbo, where she has settled permanently. As a ceramic sculptor, she creates unique pieces to which she becomes so attached that she often finds it difficult to part with them.

Elena has exhibited her works both in Italy and Europe, receiving several official recognitions, including the Social Responsibility Award for female entrepreneurship, the Regional Excellence Mark for “Artigianato Artistico,” and the Quality Mark for Tuscia Viterbese.

A phrase that best represents her is: “Life is like ceramics; you can shape it with your hands.”