Lately, I have been in love with the art of wheel throwing more than ever. There is something quite meditative in the rhythm of it — the quiet hum of the wheel, the satisfying pull of the clay beneath my fingers. I slip easily into a flow state where time softens.
Getting lost in the emotive, bold aesthetics of the jazz-house music of Berlioz while creating this body of work, I found myself being more creative when I was “Deep In It” — a song of Berlioz’s that played on repeat while I worked in the studio. The vibrant beats, intricate rhythms, and Matisse-inspired energy of the music lent themselves to my playful designs — letting the floating rhythms of the saxophone guide my carving tool and glaze-covered brushes.
I often wonder if that feeling of being “deep in it” lends itself to a fun, creative serenity where the hands take over and the mind gives way to touch — where time and the stresses of the world soften. I find a strong sense of comfort when sitting at the wheel, often feeling more at ease at the wheel than away from it — more grounded, more playful, more like myself.
The multitude of textures, patterns, colors, and forms adoring these mugs are directly inspired by Berlioz. Pulling from my love of florals, nature, and color, I created a collection of mugs to showcase the energy of this music, spring, and myself.