Wednesday 10 June 2009

Interview with Fliff


Roost Living designers are all so wonderfully passionate about their craft. It has been such a joy getting to know them. Being the nosey creature that I am, I love to delve in and really understand the inspiration behind their creations as well as getting to know a little about their day to day lives.


This week I spoke to ceramicist Fliff about her craft, her passions and how she started out.


When and why did you decide to be an artist?

I always enjoyed Art at school and my mother is a painter so it has been in my life one way or another as a way of living and being rather than a formalised decision. I did decide i suppose to try and make a living from ceramics after my first child was born 17 years ago.


What are you main creative influences?

I am inspired by textiles, found objects, cranes, towers, old cutlery. keys, anything tall and spindly, detail in the buildings of London, 17th century art......


What aspect of your work gives you the most pleasure?

I love the moment when I discover something completely new that excites me - a shape, a design, in the process of making something else. An unexpected moment usually born out of a mistake that may lead to a whole collection.


What is your workspace/studio like?

My studio is at home in a small room at the back of the house with plenty of light, a lock on the door and a CD player!


What is your greatest triumph so far?

I think that every time a piece comes out of the kiln and is close to my intention then that is a triumph. I have also completed some private commissions of which I am proud.


What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on new ideas for the end of this year and an installation based on my findings along the river Thames and Memory.


When you first started out, what was the best advice you received?

Don’t make work to please the tastes of others or follow to a current trend. Stay true to your own ideas.


What advice do you have for other artists/designers starting out?

As above! And try not to spend too much before you've sold anything!


How do you achieve a work/life balance?

By being well organised and willing to compromise.


What are you other passions?

My family, family history, old photos, archaeology, craft, vintage fabric, cushions, cycling, singing ,crisps


What is your favourite food?

Avocado and tomatoes


Trousers or skirts?

Trousers


Are you a dog or cat person?

Both, but cat in London


Fliff's products are now available online.