Let’s Talk. Sophie Ceramica

Introducing Sophie to our let’s talk, reading material series. We were immediately drawn to the playful element in her creations, the statement checkered colourful patterns and handmade shapes. Keep reading to find out the inspiration behind her pieces and to get an insight into Sophie’s life and how she got to where she is today.

Tell us a little bit about Sophie Ceramica, how did it all start and when?

@sophieceramica is the IG account of my ceramics. It all started as a way of having fun without any kind of pretensions and also a way of emptying my mind and relaxing. Before I knew it it suddenly it became a huge part of my life and it is still very crazy to believe. I am so thankful!

Where is home for you?

Home is where my family is, in Lisboa. I live in Paris but every two or three months I need to go back home for a week to recharge.

How has the last year effected your business and what did you do to overcome this?

To be honest, I am very grateful because it was a great year in terms of work and new projects. There were moments of mental instability because of the pandemic but I think I managed to get the best I could from these weird times.

Are you a full time maker? If not, what other hats do you wear?

I freelance with a production agency called Arthur et Philippine at the moment and when I lived in Lisboa, I was finishing my master in Cultural management and doing my ceramics diploma at the same time.

What are your main inspirations in your work?

Music, movies, books, the way people dress... It's a lot about colour combinations and organic shapes.

How would you describe your style?

I think it's quite naif, unpretentious and fun. I want people to want to touch my pieces, to smile at them and I want people to feel almost like eating them haha, like gummies.

How do you begin your creative process?

I take time to have a big coffee in the morning and then I start to draw. The pieces often end up totally different from the drawings but I think it's a good wait to start and there is always loud music on the studio.

What are your favourite and least favourite parts of your working day?

My favourite part it's when you have a great day at the studio. Some days are not very productive and I feel stuck and discouraged. Other days very productive and creative and that's such a good feeling, it's really amazing.

What are the most challenging parts about working with ceramics?

To clean everything after haha. No, but honestly to deal with the glazes. I have had so many bad experiences... sometimes it can be really very frustrating. If there's one thing I have learnt from ceramics is to be more detached from things, and to have patience. It's so so important.