designer designer spotlight
spotlight Support independent businesses and meet the creatives making waves in the interiors world. This month, we’re talking carefully-crafted ceramics to make everyday life that little bit more special HOLLIE COOPER CERAMICS There’s something instinctively more mindful about drinking tea or coffee from a mug that’s been handcrafted. You can feel the subtle dips and grooves from its turn on the pottery wheel – a tactile reminder of the time and skill that’s gone into the process. Likewise, arranging flowers in a vase that’s etched underneath with the initials of the maker is a small extra detail that matters. It’s this connection with a product’s origins that makes purchasing from a small business or independent artisan so much more special than your average high-street homeware buy – especially for ceramics, where something’s literally been shaped by the hands of someone extremely talented. So this month, we’re highlighting some of our favourite ceramicists crafting the very best pieces for your home – starting with Hollie Cooper, who creates bright and sunny designs that will cheer up your coffee table no end.
Q
Above Oil
burner, £40 Right Mugs, £40 each
Can you describe your business in a sentence?
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I specialise in creating contemporary ceramic homewares that are both functional and decorative.
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How did you get to the point of having your own business? My love for ceramics was found during college and developed while at university. I often attended craft fairs and events with my wares and created a branding and social media platform. Starting my own business felt like a natural path for me as I graduated, and with the help of business support, a grant, and my crowdfunding campaign, I got the necessary start-up equipment. Since settling into my home-town studio, I updated my branding to suit how work has adapted since leaving education and I now offer workshops.
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What’s your favourite thing about what you do? Having the creative freedom to develop my own projects. I love to express myself, my moods and my love for maximalist décor through ceramics. As a very tactile person, the finished result of a piece after hours, sometimes even weeks, of physical exertion is a feeling of achievement.
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What has been your proudest moment – or moments – so far? Since accepting wholesale orders, I’ve been very proud of the number of businesses ordering large quantities of items to stock in their stores. Through doing independent market events, I’ve had a great response to my pieces and have loved seeing the physical reactions of people viewing the items on display.
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