Why I Make Tiles
I've been designing tiles for years but officially opened my Seattle studio in the fall of 2012.
I took my first ceramics classes while attending Massachusetts College of Art many years ago. Ceramics is an art form that allows a tremendous range of creative exploration. From form and function to surface design and color, there are always new techniques to learn and develop.
Tile patterns are particularly interesting to me. I think we're drawn to patterns as a way of finding order in the world. I'm fascinated by combining the predictability of patterns with the uncertain nature of ceramics. The variations of chemistry and heat, in addition to the process of hand finishing and glazing, make uniformity in handmade ceramic tiles impossible. It’s this lack of uniformity that give the patterns life.
I find inspiration from a wide variety of sources including: textiles, origami, quilts, Islamic patterns, M.C. Escher, woodcut prints, puzzles, and, of course, nature. The list is constantly growing and influencing what I'm working on.
My process is very traditional but I strive to push the boundaries of form with imagination and a sense of humor. I hope it brings people joy.
- Lisa
