ERIC CROES
From Myth to Masterpiece
Ceramics that weave together mystery, history, and personal storytelling.
From a young age, Belgian artist Eric Croes has been immersed in the world of art. Starting at just six years old, he began taking drawing lessons, and his creative journey has continued ever since. Today, Eric is celebrated for his surreal yet deeply personal ceramic sculptures, which he describes as "dreamlike," weaving together myth, history, and imagination
Sourcing inspiration
Eric’s artistic process begins with inspiration from everyday observations, music, and even song lyrics. "Often, I listen to a phrase in a song, and it sparks an idea," he shares. This inspiration evolves through meticulous research and sketchbook drawings, which he later transforms directly into clay. "I like to assemble pieces on the spot; it feels more natural," Eric explains.
Turning accidents into art
Eric's passion for ceramics lies not only in their creative potential but also in their unpredictability. From vibrant, experimental glazes to sculptures shaped by the clay’s natural constraints, his work embodies both control and serendipity. He even turns accidents into art, creating "garbages," or sculptures born from broken fragments, which tell their own unique stories.
The Mythical Mermaid
The Mythical Mermaid
For his exclusive series made for The TwentyFour Six, Eric created a series of 12 unique mermaid-inspired sculptures. Reflecting on this project, he explains, "The mermaid is a mythical figure with a mysterious history—it was once a bird in Greek mythology before becoming a fish in Catholic tradition. This transformation fascinates me." Each piece in the series, featuring a distinct color and glaze, is a testament to Eric’s dedication to blending art with storytelling.
Authentic and true to you
Authentic and true to you
Despite his success, Eric remains humble and focused on his craft. "Patience is key," he advises aspiring artists. "Let your work come naturally—it should feel authentic and true to you." Whether through totemic sculptures or functional art pieces like candlesticks and bowls, Eric’s creations continue to inspire and resonate, living on in the lives of those who collect and cherish them.
Our Q&A with Eric
Our Q&A with Eric
When did you first know you wanted to be an artist?
When did you first know you wanted to be an artist?
I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember. Ever since I was little, I’ve been drawing and tinkering. At six, I started taking drawing classes, and I’ve never stopped learning since then.
How would you describe your artistic style?
How would you describe your artistic style?
I’d say it’s dreamlike and surreal, but it’s grounded in a mix of inspirations. My work tells a new story every time, blending mythology, history, and everyday life.
What inspired the mermaid series for The TwentyFour Six?
The mermaid has a fascinating history—it was once a bird in Greek mythology before evolving into a fish in Catholic tradition. I love this mystery, and I wanted to bring that narrative to life in a way that also incorporated functional art like a pocket emptier and candleholder.
What’s your typical day like in the studio?
What’s your typical day like in the studio?
I’m quite disciplined. I work Monday to Friday, starting at 9 a.m. with music and coffee. I plan my tasks on a whiteboard and in notebooks, and then I begin modeling or assembling pieces. Ceramics take time—it can take days to complete a single sculpture, so I always have projects in rotation.
Do you have a favorite piece or series?
It’s hard to choose—they’re all like my children! But I’m particularly proud of the mermaid series and my ‘garbages’. The ‘garbages’ are special because they’re born from broken pieces, which I rebuild into something completely new and meaningful.
What advice would you give to emerging artists?
What advice would you give to emerging artists?
Be patient. Let your work evolve naturally rather than forcing it. Authenticity takes time, and your unique style will emerge if you trust the process.
How do you hope people interpret your art?
How do you hope people interpret your art?
I like to give viewers some keys to understanding the story behind my work, but I also love when they see something new that I hadn’t thought of. My goal is for my pieces to continue living, whether they’re part of someone’s dinner table or sparking a unique story in their mind.
