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Meet The Maker: Jessica Choi - Eun Ceramics
Hello 2021! We are feeling fresh, optimistic and filled with hearts bursting with love for our Makers, our customers and our treasured community (Hey, that's You!) As such, we are kickstarting this year's series of 'Meet the Maker' with one of our favourite Makers (and Yours tbh! - we had a lot of fun brainstorming how to gift wrap these incredible shapes throughout December,) Eun Ceramics!
Eun Ceramics are handmade in Melbourne by one seriously talented and lovely ceramicist-come-business operator, Jessica Choi.
We just love the textures of Eun Ceramics and the soft earthy tones of Jessica's glazes. The unique structures of her vases are equal parts delicate and strong, fluid in line, but monumental in presence and each with an inherently feminine POV.
We caught up with Jessica about her work and her studio and were transported to aesthetic heaven by these dreamy studio shots by Vivienne Nguyen, @lezmcguire666.
Please tell us about your journey to Eun Ceramics. Did you study? What drew you to the art of ceramics?
I got into pottery about 5 years ago, just after I got married. I had recently moved out with my husband and was working from home, so I had lots of time alone and a newfound interest in home decor. I stumbled across a mesmerising video of pottery being made and thought it’d be a great way for me to get out of the house and make some cute pots for the house - kill two birds with one stone kind of situation. So I booked a semester of class and the rest is history!
We love the curved lines and rounded textures of your beautiful Vases. What does your creative process look like?
I experimented with lots of different designs and colours over the years and found myself sort of lost without my own style, so I had to sit down and think about what I'd like my work to reflect and what I'm good at. I’ve always loved the minimalistic and clean look but also wanted to create something that’s unique and thought provoking. I knew I excelled at wheel throwing so I focused on refining designs that could highlight those skills and approach the minimalistic style by incorporating the clay’s natural textures and colours as much as possible.
Each piece is handmade using locally sourced materials, what are your favourite materials to work with?
My current favourite material to work with is raku clay from NSW. It’s very versatile to work with and can be modified to create different interesting textures.
You have such a beautifully articulated aesthetic from your signature ceramics through to your styling and instagram handwriting. What inspires you?
I find inspirations in odd places, sometimes during a conversation and sometimes just daydreaming in bed. I usually draw a quick scribble on my phone whenever I get an idea and revisit them a few weeks or months after. If I still like the design, I’ll start developing it and adjust it as I go.
Please tell us about your studio/work space! What do you need to have around you to feel creative and motivated?
I was lucky enough to have the space at home to move all my pottery equipment into when Melbourne went into lock down. I was worried it'll get too messy because pottery can be a messy business but it’s worked out so well, I think I’m going to continue working from the home studio. I've been working from home for nearly 5 years so I'm used to the lifestyle. I like that I can make my own hours and have everything I need in hand without having to waste time getting ready and commuting back and forth. Not having to leave my cat alone at home for a long period of time is also a bonus because I feel guilty whenever I have to leave her by herself! Two things I must have before work are a big cup of coffee and blasting my never-changing music playlist!
What advice would you give to emerging Makers who want to start their own business?
I’m also just starting out so I’m not sure if I’m in the position to give out advice. However, I think it’s important to stay committed and not feel discouraged too early. Don’t be scared to try out new things and seek out for opportunities to allow other people to find you!
2020 has been a year most of us won’t forget (albeit many of us will want to!) What have you learnt about yourself and your business in 2020?
2020 has been one of the most productive years for me actually! I finally became comfortable enough in my own work to put them out in the world and received so much love beyond expectation. The most important thing I learned during the year is how to stay motivated and utilise my time productively. I'm also more appreciative of all the people I love in my life but learnt that I don't always have to be socialising to have fun and it's ok to take a slower pace sometimes.
What are some of your goals for 2021?
I’m currently working on a few new designs which hoping to release in a couple of months. We also just bought our first home and will be starting our reno in a couple of weeks so I’m looking forward to creating my dream studio at the back!
Eun Ceramics available at Makers Mrkt
Jessica's Studio shots are by Vivienne Nguyen @lezmcguire666.
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