Caroline Elliott
Burnt Thistle Ceramics
North Palm Beach, Florida
Website
www.burntthistleceramics.com
Artist Statement
Caroline Elliott’s work is symbolic, meaningful, and personal. It supports individuals in their own spiritual journey and rituals. She is passionate about helping people realize their own personal expression through connecting with motifs and designs.
Studio Description
Cozy, cluttered, and tropical
What type of clay do you use?
Stoneware
What temperature do you fire to?
cone 5
What is your primary forming method?
Handbuilding
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Sgraffito
Do you make any of your own tools?
Yes, I made my slab roller, it’s a dowel rod. Handy, right?
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Magical
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
It’s my own space where I can go into another world to create.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Sonos speaker
What are your top three studio wishes?
A sink, air conditioning, and a beer tap
What’s on your current reading list?
Mythos by Stephen Fry
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Recycle
How do you recharge creatively?
Baths or a dip in the ocean. Water or walks.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Get organized, hello Containers and More. And take the space you need, aka your kitchen counter or a table outside if you have a lot going on.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Failure; it’s just part of the process, and there is always something to learn. Learn, and iterate.
What did your first piece look like?
The earliest piece I remember was a tiny storyteller doll figurine from elementary school.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
Insta-firing. I’m impatient.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
Guy Sachs. He was the first to believe in my work.
What is on your studio playlist?
I’m more into audiobooks.
Why do you create art?
To get ideas out of my head and onto something tangible.
What is your best studio tip?
Make it your sacred space.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
Cracking.
