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Michaella Smart,
Mimie Poterie,
Woodstock, Oxfordshire
UK
Email: mimiepoterie@gmx.com
Website: https://www.mimiepoterie.com/
Artist Statement: As a ceramic artisan, I make functional ware inspired by Japanese design and ecological issues. I also create pitfired artifacts, researching the question of time, relativity of identities and connections through borrowed memories.
Studio Description: Mimie Poterie is my independent ceramics studio, based in the historic town of Woodstock, Oxfordshire (UK). I principally fire my functional ware in an electric kiln, and produce series of archaeological art pieces which are pitfired.
What type of clay do you use? White earthenware, white and black stoneware and high molochite porcelain.
What temperature do you fire to? Earthenware: 1120C - Stoneware/porcelain: 12500C
What is your primary forming method? I primarily throw on the wheel, but also do slab work.
What is your favorite surface treatment? Sgraffito is currently my obsession. I am also exploring glaze effects and developing recipes.
Do you make any of your own tools? I make my own stamps and ribs as well as moulds.
What one word would you use to describe your work? Awakening.
What is your favorite thing about your studio? The smell of wood (it is a cabin) and the big windows.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without? Music.
What are your top three studio wishes? A pitfire in my garden, a bigger electric kiln, and more shelf space.
What’s on your current reading list? From mud to music (Barry Hall) and Off the Map by Alastair Bonnett.
How do you save money on materials and supplies? Bulk buying, digging minerals/oxides if possible, recycling clay.
How do you recharge creatively? Nature walks, live music, drawing and sketching, reading, meeting friends and fellow potters for a social.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency? Clear labelling, good lighting with high lumen LED bulbs (speeds up the decorating process), planning ahead.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome? Sculpting human figures, throwing bigger pots in several pieces.
What did you first piece look like? Wobbly cup with a good lip.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why? No fatigue so that I could go on and on with all the work.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why? I don't have a mentor but my inspiration would be sculptor Sharon Griffin for her approach to art.
What is your studio playlist? Lunar Symphony, Eric Satie, NIN, Fugazi, Amiina.
Why do you create art? To help people engage with one another in discussions and discover connections.
What is your best studio tip? Insulation for winters.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be? Bounciness once a pot is fired.
