"As someone who creates with clay, I can be quite a perfectionist but my work represents the opposite, it is not perfect or symmetrical it has a character. I am very drawn to the idea that materia is not just material, especially what comes to handmade objects. There is so much more thought, love, passion, and care behind handmade products which give the objects their unique look and story. As a creator, I want to make more visible the process of handmade products and encourage people to support handmade traditions."
What has been your path to working with ceramics?
I have studied Industrial Design and during our material courses, I became familiar with clay and its versatile processing abilities. Quickly clay became my material in the field of design, I fell in love with its organic and unpredictable nature. Clay is also a very physical material that works well for me because I identify myself as more of a maker. I enjoy the feeling of raw material in my hands and seeing how the material evolves during the creative process.
What is your work process like?
I get excited from new material experiments and also opening the kiln after the last glaze firing!.When making clay to ceramics the process itself includes steps from design, to making, drying, polishing, glazing, and firing the clay body. These stages help to keep some sort of rhythm and create routines for the week. It’s hard to say where the ideas come from... It's a very intuitive process. Usually, my hands work faster than my thoughts but I would say my works reflect my values and things that are important for me.
What is your studio like?
My studio is one of my favorite places where I spent most of my time. At the moment my studio is located in my house, which is a good thing because I have all my favorite things near me, like my garden.If I have a creative block, I can just go and stroll in the garden, I love it.
What do you like about the home exhibition concept?
I believe that bringing art and design to a residential location helps visualize the artwork as a part of your own home, which makes it more approachable.
What kind of people are you inspired by?
I admire people who are brave to follow their dreams.
What kind of projects do you have coming?
This year I am planning on opening my webshop for my ceramic work. I also have collaborations planned for the summer.
What interests you at the moment?
I have endless interest and passion for ceramics, or at least it feels like it! There is still so muchto learn and experiment with.
What are you dreaming of?
I dream that I can keep working with ceramics. I also dream of collaborations with other great makers and in the future. I dream to have a bigger kiln and maybe even a bigger studio!
Noora Karila is part of the A Playful Approach exhibition