This time we had the pleasure to talk with ceramist Yvonne from Barcelona, Spain about her journey from exploring various artistic disciplines to falling in love with clay.
Yvonne is also the host of the Art Nouveau-inspired Pottery Workshops and Spanish Aperitivos that take place on a regular basis at her cosy studio in Barcelona.
1. What is the art you make?
I am a ceramist.
I make utilitarian pieces mainly, but I also love to make more decorative and artistic pieces. I usually create the prototypes of new pieces with the wheel or hand-building, and then work with slip-casting moulds for production.
The part of the process I enjoy the most is the conception and design of the pieces, and their decoration. I love seeing how pieces that started out as just an idea come to life.
2. How did you find your way to your art?
It was a long road.
I am very curious and I like to learn new things, and I have always felt the need to do creative activities. Before getting into ceramics, I tried many other disciplines, such as hand stamping, screen printing, photography, cyanotype, sewing... Until I fell in love with clay.
3. What is the reason you continue to practice your art?
Ceramics offers endless possibilities and there is always something new to learn, so you never get bored.
4. What is your personal highlight during your entire time as an artist?
Without a doubt, being able to have my own studio. It's something I was really looking forward to.
5. When do you feel most productive?
I work best when I have a bit of stress and in the afternoons and evenings.
6. What or who inspires you?
My city, Barcelona, is a constant source of inspiration, as well as the work of fellow ceramists and other artists.
7. In which "small" things do you find the most joy?
I try to integrate those small things into my routine:
A nice breakfast while reading, spending time with my family and friends, a kitesurfing or paddle surfing session at any nearby beach...
8. Do you have a vision or goal you are working towards?
Spend as much time as possible doing things that I enjoy and that motivate me, also professionally.
9. What is a life well lived for you?
To be at peace, doing what I like, surrounding myself with people who make me feel good and always listening to my intuition.
10. What do you do when you feel "stuck"?
I do sport, it's a great way to clear my head and change my perspective.
11. How do you deal with setbacks?
I accept the frustration that accompanies them and try to learn something positive from every bad experience.
12. What is your favorite feeling?
Love.
13. What is your least favorite feeling?
Sadness.
14. What are you most afraid of?
Seeing how the world is evolving, I am afraid of losing freedom and rights.
15. What is a book you highly recommend (the first one that comes to your mind)?
The House of the Spirits, by Isabel Allende.
16. If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Still Life, by Suede.
17. Your favorite guilty pleasure?
A glass of good red wine accompanied by some Spanish cheese and Iberian ham.
-- That sounds delicious, Yvonne!
Thanks for your time to answer all of our questions.
If you want to meet, create and learn from Yvonne in real life, you can book her Art Nouveau-inspired Pottery Workshop and Spanish Aperitivo that take place on a regular basis at her beautiful ceramic art studio in Barcelona, Spain.
Hasta la próxima,
Kat y Team subcultours