DESIGNER OF THE MONTH
This talented ceramic artist uses clay to create beautiful ceramic homeware and jewellery inspired by the natural world
American-born Katie established Illyria Pottery in 2008, but it was afew years later that her practice really got going, when she moved to the UK and set up shop in central Oxford. Fast forward seven years and with a baby on the way, she decided upon achange of pace, moving her business online and her home to atiny thatched cottage in the countryside. Katie makes all her pieces in her garden studio, inspired by her peaceful surroundings.
Why ceramics?
I absolutely love clay! There’s almost nothing you can’t make with it. From tiny, delicate pieces of porcelain jewellery, to functional pottery and sculptural work, to large industrial applications and architectural features. It’s awhole world of possibilities in one medium.
What inspires you?
My recent transition from city to country has been awelcome one. Ifind myself drawn to open spaces. I like room to ramble and forage and achance to employ those wonderful textures and shapes that I encounter. The results are varied. Imake large, organic vessels, but also bowls, butter domes and homeware.
What are the joys, and challenges, you face as an independent maker?
Everything rests on me, so Ihave to follow through in every way. From coming up with designs and creating each piece to having the packaging supplies Ineed and shipping everything out the door. The flip side is the freedom this affords, which is ideal for me as amum. If Iknow we need a quieter time at home, I can dial things down for awhile.
Career highlight?
Where my pieces live. It’s exciting to think of their afterlives, once they’ve left my studio. From Hôtel de Crillon in central Paris to afarmer’s kitchen, the breadth is remarkable, and I’m equally pleased with both.
Any good advice for independent creatives who are looking to start their own business?
Fine-tune your craft. There’s alot of artists out there. I think it’s really important to lean into what lights you up. That’s what makes your work different. It’s what you have to offer the world.
Creative style in three words?
Elegant, organic and timeless. illyriapottery.co.uk
Nostalgic & inspiration
The new collection from designer Cathy Nordström is inspired by the work of 19th-century textile artist Karin Larsson who, together with her artist husband Carl Larsson, pioneered the Swedish aesthetic. Cathy’s hand-drawn fabric designs combine expressive abstract patterns and geometric prints in rich saturated colours. Karin’s great-great-granddaughter Lina says, ‘I’m so proud that Karin’s art and aesthetic continue
