Di Fretto's gourmet and sensual ceramics

My connection with Aurélie Fretti is a story about dogs and babuka cakes. You might think the two are unrelated, but I have immense respect for this ceramicist and sculptor named Di Fretto.

She is incredibly talented and witty. This former Parisian moved to the heart of Luberon a year ago with her three dogs, her partner, and her children. It perfectly reflects her own style: pure, minimalist, and full of beauty. I hope to take you there someday—it’s a paradise where she can unleash her creativity. Aurélie’s father is Italian and her mother is Polish, and she incorporates both cultures into her work.

On one hand, her work pays homage to ancient sculptures, giving them life and reinterpreting them in her own way, while also incorporating Italian elements: busts, inverted heads (transformed into lamps or vases), cleverly using the artistic vocabulary of that era and contemporary artistic symbols. On the other hand, the «Babka» series takes one back to childhood—one of his representative works, a tribute to the famous Polish butter bread of the same name. Particularly noteworthy is this elegant white fire-resistant clay table lamp, its irregular spiral shape symbolizing the whirlwind of life. «Babka» also creates ceramic or wooden decals, which he cuts and shapes with a chainsaw; he also creates wall sculptures and even transforms casting molds into decals.

Di Fretto’s gourmet and sensual ceramics – Billie Blanket

Another surprise is the large handles on his colorful enamel cups, which he has also reused to create vases. From cups to wall murals, Aurellie is unrestricted, following her desires and expressing them through the various techniques she has learned along the way. That’s why I want to introduce you to this artist’s poetic and inspired world. Fearless, radiating both strength and vulnerability, she creates works that are both beautiful and functional with delicate brushstrokes. My Babka lamp arrived in our living room a week ago; I admire it from a different perspective every day. With Aurellie’s permission, I wrapped the lampshade with wool yarn to make it softer and more comfortable. However, the original lampshade was made of linen.

I wanted to introduce Aurellie’s world, her work, and of course, her beloved dogs through some photos—the dogs are now a topic of conversation between us, just like this beautiful lamp, which illuminates our home with its elegant light.

Babuka Lamp, with original linen lampshade.
This is the version with a handmade wool lampshade.
Babuka Wall Lamp, terracotta-colored refractory clay.
Babuka Wall Lamp, poplar wood.
«Babuka» Egg Cup, glazed terracotta.

«Tosad» Kettle or Vase, glazed terracotta. Also available in magenta and navy blue. Glazed terracotta twisted vase.

Left: Brown and white glazed terracotta «inverted head» floor lamp. Right: Original terracotta «inverted» vase.

«Le Baiser» Wall Lamp—An Italian-style bas-relief piece, decorated with appliqués on both the front and back.

Aurélie and her dogs.

Visit the Di Fretto website to learn more about Aurélie. Follow Di Fretto and Aurélie on Instagram.

Image credits: Chloe le Drezen, Gladys Tan, Mathilde Hiley, and Alix Jean.

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Conclusion

Aurélie’s artistic journey is a compelling example of how personal history, cultural heritage, and creative curiosity can come together to form a unique and recognizable artistic language. Her move from Paris to the serene landscapes of the Luberon region represents more than a simple change of location; it reflects a conscious decision to embrace a lifestyle that nurtures creativity, calm, and authenticity. Surrounded by nature, her family, and her loyal dogs, she has found an environment that allows her imagination to flourish freely. This peaceful setting clearly resonates with the aesthetic qualities present in her work—simplicity, purity, and a refined sense of beauty.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Aurélie’s work is the way she bridges the past and the present. By reinterpreting ancient sculptures, she brings classical forms into contemporary contexts, giving them new meaning and purpose. Her use of busts, inverted heads, and sculptural elements reflects a deep appreciation for historical artistic traditions, particularly those connected to Italian art. Yet, rather than merely reproducing the past, she transforms these influences with originality and playful creativity. Lamps, vases, and decorative pieces emerge from these forms, blending artistic heritage with modern design and functionality.

Equally significant is the emotional dimension of her work, particularly visible in the “Babka” series. Inspired by the traditional Polish bread associated with comfort, family, and childhood memories, these pieces introduce a sense of nostalgia and warmth into her artistic universe. The spiral forms, especially in the elegant white clay lamp, symbolize the unpredictable and dynamic nature of life itself. Through this symbolism, Aurélie manages to create objects that are not only visually striking but also rich in meaning.

Her creative process also demonstrates a remarkable versatility. Whether she is shaping clay, carving wood with a chainsaw, or transforming casting molds into decorative elements, Aurélie constantly explores new techniques and materials. This willingness to experiment allows her to expand the boundaries of her art while maintaining a consistent visual identity.

Ultimately, Aurélie’s work stands as a celebration of cultural fusion, craftsmanship, and imagination. By combining influences from her Italian and Polish heritage with contemporary artistic ideas, she creates pieces that feel both timeless and refreshingly modern. Her art invites viewers to appreciate beauty in unexpected forms and reminds us that creativity often thrives where tradition and innovation meet.