Crafting objects from clay has a rich history, and today, individuals who create such traditional pieces are truly remarkable. Igor Romić, the founder of Studio Croker Pottery near Sveta Nedelja, is a living example of someone who turned a hobby into a thriving business. His unique plates now adorn the tables of some of the best restaurants in Croatia, Austria, Germany, and Italy.
Igor Romić's journey from a corporate desk to a potter's wheel was fueled by courage, determination, a mysterious inner voice, and creative energy. Swapping a secure office job for a dwindling traditional craft demanded great courage. What's even more intriguing is that he made this leap two decades ago and continues to thrive in pottery. Today, he designs exclusive tableware for prestigious hotels and restaurants, often collaborating with renowned chefs.
My client base primarily consists of hotels and restaurants. Our dishes are featured in various esteemed establishments such as Šibenik's Pelegrini, Zoi restaurant in Split, Korta Katarina villa and winery in Pelješac, Dubrovnik's Prot, Konavoski dvori, Istrian hotel San Canzian, Zagreb's Dubravkin put, and Pod zidom bistro. The list encompasses numerous restaurants in Croatia, Austria, Italy, and Germany," Romić informed Forbes Croatia.
He stresses the importance of approaching each restaurant individually and crafting a unique pottery set, whether a complete collection or just pieces needed in the market.
The artist's business is currently thriving. Located in Brezje, near Sveta Nedelja, his studio serves as an exhibition and sales area for his handicrafts, which are also available on his webshop. He also crafts bespoke tableware for discerning private clients seeking unique, handmade pieces. Remarkably, when he initially ventured into this business, he possessed no market presence, a reality that starkly contrasts his current success.
In 2001, I commenced my foray into ceramics while holding an office position. Initially intended as a pastime, ceramics swiftly evolved to dominate my time and eventually transitioned into a commercial pursuit. I established my enterprise in 2003, embarking on an entrepreneurial journey. Notably, the pottery industry was in a precarious state both domestically and globally at the time, with traditional potters phasing out and no new successors emerging. Initially, I managed all aspects of the business, creating utilitarian souvenirs such as cups, bowls, and bottles featuring Adriatic motifs, antique bowl replicas, oysters, and amphorae, retailed through coastal galleries. Subsequently, the business expanded to encompass corporate gift production and the manufacture of olive oil bottles for renowned Croatian oil mills. This account is attributed to the founder of Croker Studio.
Igor Romić is an exemplary figure in sustainable entrepreneurship within Zagreb County. His dedication to traditional pottery, involving the creation of distinctive, handcrafted pieces imbued with affection and precision, plays a significant role in upholding local heritage and tradition. By collaborating with indigenous dining establishments, such as restaurants in Zagreb County, Romić actively champions regional culture and artisanal workmanship.
The Tourist Board of Zagreb County acknowledges the significance of Romić's contributions. His finely crafted, high-quality ceramics exemplify superb design and champion sustainability in the local economy. His distinctive plates, featured in esteemed restaurants, play a pivotal role in delivering an authentic visitor experience while concurrently promoting local gastronomy and the sustainable utilisation of resources. Igor Romić's impact transcends pottery; he is a proponent of sustainable production and a custodian of Zagreb County's cultural heritage.