Local artist profile: Clare Power

THIS week we chat with potter/ceramicist Clare Power, who said pottery became the perfect way for her to step away from her busy schedule, switch off from her phone and social media, and carve out intentional moments of mindfulness and happiness in her day.

What motivated you to take up pottery?

I’d just moved to a new suburb in Melbourne where I didn’t know anyone.

On my drive to work I’d always pass a local pottery studio and think, “I should do a class and make some new friends!”

Before I knew it, I was all in!

It became the perfect way to step away from my busy schedule, switch off from my phone and social media, and carve out intentional moments of mindfulness and happiness in my day.

How would you describe your style?

I’d describe my style as bright, welcoming and playful, with pieces that spark a happy, cosy feeling.

Many of my pieces are functional tableware, like my “Thumbler” mugs which are designed to nestle into your hand like a little hug.

I love that handmade pottery keeps the maker’s fingerprints and quirks alive in the clay – it feels like leaving a little secret signature behind on every piece.

In developing my style, I paid close attention to how my pieces made me feel.

If a piece made my heart feel all sparkly or I found myself looking forward to using it, I knew I was heading in the right direction.

Which other potters/ceramicists inspire you?

There are so many!

Florian Gadsby is an incredible potter whose style is very refined and intentional.

He films incredible instructional videos and I’ve always been very appreciative of his generosity in sharing his knowledge.

What are some highlights you have from your time as a potter/ceramicist so far?

One highlight that still makes me smile was randomly going viral on Instagram last year.

I posted a reel of a hanging planter I designed which has a little detachable cup at the bottom so you can tip out the drained water without making a huge mess.

Somehow it went a bit wild and ended up with over 11 million views!

Where is your studio and can people visit you there?

Clayful Pottery Studio has recently opened in Kangaroo Flat (113 High Street).

The studio is open by appointment and I run lots of fun classes throughout the week and on weekends.

How can people check out your work online?

You can follow the studio on Instagram to keep in the loop about new classes and projects that I’ve got on the go (@clayful.pottery) and book classes via clayful.com.au

What are you working on right now?

So many things at Clayful!

I spent the first half of the year renovating the studio, and now I’m making little refinements as I live in and experience the space.

Classes are keeping me very busy, which brings me so much joy.

I’m also planning ahead for Christmas workshops and events, and trying to spend some time at the pottery wheel just for me too.

What would you say to young regional aspiring potters/ceramicists who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Start today and take small, consistent steps toward your goal.

The pottery community is incredibly generous, welcoming and supportive, so find your people and surround yourself with pottery pals who cheer you on.

I’d also encourage you to trust and back yourself.

Make work that excites you and you’ll find what is meant for you in this life.