Our incredibly clever makers are who keep IZMO turning, and we are so lucky to stock homegrown talent. This week, we pick the brains of Izzy Letty Ceramics on how she got started, her design process and what's next!
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in ceramics?
I got my first taste for pottery in an evening class whilst I was working in an advertising agency about 5 years ago. I totally fell in love with the material from that first session and so began a few years of juggling a busy office job with squeezing in as many studio hours as possible. This culminated in quitting my job to do a ceramics residency in Denmark, after which I returned and established my studio in London.
What inspires your designs and the forms you create in your work?
I'm always inspired by the incredible ceramics collections at the British Museum or the V&A, which I love to traipse around when I want a bout of awe and inspiration. But mostly when designing work I think about how simple ceramic objects can bring joy to the everyday in a quiet way. It's about enhancing domestic life with well functioning and aesthetic pots.
Can you walk us through your creative process from idea to finished product?
I tend to prototype pieces on the wheel, rather than sketching ideas beforehand. The beauty of clay as a material is that unwanted prototypes can be recycled into workable clay again so there's never any wastage. Only when I'm really happy with a new form will I fire and glaze it.
What advice do you have for aspiring ceramic artists looking to turn their passion into a career?
If you can gradually reduce your day job hours, or keep a part time role going I'd recommend it rather than going cold turkey on the salary front. Being stressed about having to sell x number of pots each month to pay rent is very creatively stifling, so in the beginning especially when you're exploring your style, avoid commercial pressure where you can. But go for it! A life making pots is a good one.
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or collaborations you're excited about?
I've got lots of projects I'm really excited about for this year. One is designing a range of flatware crockery. Another is a project for Design Week in collaboration with Studio Pottery London - more to be revealed in September!
Fancy some of Izzy's creations in your home? Take a peek at our favourites below:
Shop now:
Pedestal Bowl - £170
Belly Mug - £25
Candlestick - £32
Keep up with all Izzy's news on her Instagram.
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