MATIN MALIKZADA/MALIKZADA POTTERY

A seventh-generation Afghan master of traditional pottery, Matin Malikzada is internationally recognized for his technical skill and elegant designs. A native of Istalif, Afghanistan, once a vibrant center of ceramic art and commerce, Matin was forced to flee Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover. Along with his family, he is now resettled in Northwest Connecticut where he continues his journey as an artist.

​

In Kabul, Matin served as head of the Ceramics department at the Turquoise Mountain Institute, an NGO founded by King Charles, III, where in his youth he studied and honed the skills inherited from his father. Upon graduating, he was hired as a Master of Ceramics, and ultimately rose to lead the department.Matin revitalized a nearly lost art of symmetrical design and turquoise glaze derived from natural pigments

unique to Istalifi pottery and has trained over one hundred artisans in these ancient techniques..

 

In addition to holding a bachelor’s degree in Law from Afghanistan, he has earned Certificates in Design and Crafts from the City and Guilds Institute of London, been a visiting artist at the Institute of Ceramic Studies at Shigaraki, Japan, and authored books on Istalifi Pottery.

 

As a practicing artist for nearly twenty years, Matin has exhibited his work and demonstrated his skill to heads of state, dignitaries, artists, educators, as well as museum- and gallery-goers around the world.

​