The other week I reached a personal milestone. I took the test for "Gesällbrev" in pottery - and passed!
I don’t really have a good english word for it (according to Google Translate it is a "journeymans certificate"), but it is sort of a certificate for craftsman skills in Sweden. For me, this is an important confirmation that I have the knowledge needed to be able to make functional tableware, with the quality needed for use both at home and in restaurants.
The test is done over the course of one day and under the supervision of a review jury, which consists of three of Sweden's most competent ceramists. During this day I will produce 6 mugs, 6 bowls, 4 jugs and 4 dinner plates, complete a theory test and present a selection of my production for review. It's a tough day and the jury makes high demands - which is exactly as it should be. That makes the Gesällbrev even more valuable, and you as a customer can be sure that I have the skills of the craft.
After a few days of waiting, I got word - I was approved! Now the diploma ceremony awaits in the City Hall in Stockholm in November, which is a great honour. This is an old tradition, and I think it's important that we respect and celebrate the traditions and craftsmanship that previous generations have passed on. And the fact is that there are not that many potters in Sweden who have this certificate. That makes me even more proud!