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In architectural specifications it’s referred to as “sculptured
ceramic wall surfacing”; in layman’s terms we call it “textured”
tile. Although always a part of a continuous pattern or design, each
individual tile is unique. Unlike most conventional art forms, a Hans
Sumpf Company sculpture is a structural part of its environment. It
becomes as much the architecture as the wall or building itself.
Every artistic, scientific and structural consideration is carefully
studied, from design phase to pre-production, to forming, drying,
cutting, glazing and firing. And then, piece by piece, each tile is
numbered, shipped and assembled on site. Soon, the creative beginning
has a fitting end.
There are no molds for this procedure or product. The importance of
standardization in today’s world has no place. Whether the tile is
cut to a typical 12” x 12” or randomly is determined only by the
importance of creativity. Otherwise, this could not be the sculpture
of the Hans Sumpf Company.
Founded in the mid-1930s by Hans Sumpf, a Stanford-educated engineer
who devised a means of waterproofing adobe bricks, the company began
producing textured wall surfaces in the mid-sixties when ceramic
artist Stan Bitters was invited to join the firm. A succession of
artists followed Stan’s exemplary work, each adding his own
particular talent to the process. For many years the company has also
specialized in the custom reproduction of historic floor and roof tiles.
After 70 years the Hans Sumpf Company closed its doors in early 2006.
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