STORIES IN CLAY
Inspired by ancient vessels and forms in nature, ceramicist Jade Paton’s style is ever-changing
Who are you, and what do you do?
I am a Cape Town-based ceramicist who has been creating hand-built sculptures out of clay for the past two years.
How did you get into ceramics?
I studied fine art at Michaelis, where I majored in sculpture. I have always gravitated towards creating threedimensionally. I attended a pottery class in 2018 and fell in love with the medium. I learnt the basic steps in class, but got a real feel for the craft from having my own studio and learning from my mistakes.
Have you experimented with other mediums or disciplines?
I have done photography, worked with flowers, edited a zine called The Carnation, and created décor for interior spaces.
How would you describe your work and unique style?
My work is minimal, bold and sculptural. I believe my work feels both ancient and futuristic; a strange juxtaposition of old and new. I was lucky to have found my style quite instinctively. Although my creative voice is distinctive, I am constantly thinking of ways to evolve my practice.
What is the best part about creating and shaping things with your hands?
During the building process, the shape mutates and evolves into something unexpected. I believe that the hand-made quality gives the object more value. Each piece is a one-off.
How do you develop new ideas and concepts, and who or what inspires you?
I am inspired by ancient vessels from a variety of cultures, as well as forms in nature. I also draw inspiration from artists like Isamu Noguchi, Valentine Schlegel and Henry Moore, to name a few. Because I am constantly looking at books and online resources, I do not find myself getting stuck. I find that I have more ideas than I have time to realise them.
The shapes and colours you use are unique. Has this changed over time?
I think my style is always changing but I like the combination of natural muted tones with bright, saturated hues.
Whose ceramic pieces do you own? And whose pieces would you like to own?
I have some pieces by Christo Giles and Ben Orkin, as well as some interesting Milnerton market finds. I would love to own works by Jordan McDonald, Ewen Henderson, Simone Bodmer-Turner and Mitch Iburg.
Studio life can be challenging. What are the best and worst parts of your day?
The most challenging aspect is the pressure that comes with the unpredictable nature of the medium. It can sometimes lead to disappointing results. Cracks can occur and things can go wrong with glazes. I put so much love and energy into a work and at the very end it can sometimes not work out. I often build doubles if I have tight deadlines. I have also learnt to accept this as part of the process. The unpredictable nature of the medium can also lead to positive results which I embrace. The best part of working in studio is being able to do what I love every day. I am able to express myself creatively and work in an environment that I have built for myself. I love having my own business and going into the studio is something I look forward to.
@jadepatonceramics; jadepaton@gmail.com