Could you tell us a little bit more about yourself and what made you start the business? 

 

I've been making ceramics for the past 12 years. I studied sculpture, but halfway through my bachelor's degree, I switched to ceramics. I completed an MA in Ceramics and Glass at the Royal College of Art in 2013. I've spent a lot of time teaching ceramics in museums and galleries in London, but 18 months ago I made a decision to place more of my energy into my own practice, rather than just helping others to develop their own! 

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What inspires your work? 

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I am often drawn to patterns and motifs found within indigenous craft objects and textiles, made by communities that attribute great expressive power to visual things. My research into artefacts can be quite specific: from nnaam wood carvings made throughout the Kuba Kingdom, to sculptures produced on Aitutaki, one of the Cook Islands in the South Pacific. I never replicate objects and patterns, rather I amalgamate what I have learnt from these making traditions with influences from European art and design.

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What is the most important thing for you in your business?

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Time. Until recently I spent up to 25 hours a week on the train, commuting to my teaching work in London. To pursue any sort of creative practise professionally, you need the space and energy to focus.

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A little story or an anecdote you would like to share?

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I can't even tell you how much terracotta clay I must have drunk over the years! I often accidentally wash out my brush into my coffee cup, then take a big swig...

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Based In: London, United Kingdom

Product Range: Made to Order Ceramics  

Website: lydiahardwick.co.uk

Instagram: @lydia.hardwick