2019 AWARD WINNER | Staffordshire University (BA)

Nicole Waefler

BA Hons Ceramics | Staffordshire University

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1. Tell us about yourself, your work, and your career path so far.

I am a designer-maker specialising in creating functional tableware that seeks to add an element of playfulness to the dining experience. The design process for me involves sketching out first ideas, creating 3D models on the computer before exploring physical prototypes in the plaster workshop where I begin to create models and moulds. I initially trained as a pastry chef, and there is a definite link between ceramics and patisserie with working in a three-dimensional way and firing (or baking!) the final pieces, though I can’t eat the final product anymore!

2. Describe your first encounter with clay?

I was probably about 9 or 10 when I was first enrolled onto a Saturday morning ceramics class and introduced to clay for the first time. Here I learnt all the basics from coiling, pinch pots and slab building. I also did a lot of work press moulding slabs and decorating with coloured slips which was a lot of fun, and I also had an introduction to throwing which was very messy!

3. Why did you choose ceramics?

For me, I love the tactility of clay and how versatile it is, but I especially love beautiful and functional ceramics. There is also so much to explore in the world of ceramics from hand building, to throwing and working with more industrial methods like slip casting. Even the process of glazing is a whole area of ceramics that offers endless experimentation and research. I think also the fact that ceramics is one of the oldest crafts in the world and it has so much history and diversity is something I find fascinating too.

4. Where do you find inspiration? Places, people, objects, music...

I find inspiration from visiting galleries and exhibitions, especially the V and A and British Museum in London whenever I have the chance. Looking at ceramics throughout history is inspiring for me, and I particularly love the work of the Memphis design movement and how it brought humour and playfulness into functional interior objects. This is something that has influenced my own work, and I try to incorporate an element of fun into what I make.

5. What are the tools of your trade that you can't do without?

Since I am often making models in plaster on the lathe, I would say a solid set of chisels is essential as well as a decent apron as you very quickly get messy working in plaster! During the slip casting process having a good set of fettling tools is also important such as a fettling knife and a decent set of sponges on sticks.

6. What is a typical day in the studio like?

I think as a designer-maker involved in every stage of production a typical day depends on what process I am working on. Once I have finalised my ideas, I would normally spend a few weeks in plaster making models and moulds and making sure that everything is perfect at this point. Any imperfections on the models will show up in the moulds and on all subsequent casts! Once this stage is done, I would then begin slip casting and making sure all the work is of the same standard before having the pieces bisque fired and spending time glazing and finishing off. Once all the practical work has been done, time needs to be spent on presenting and showcasing your work which means there is never a dull moment!

7. What do the next 12 months have in store for you?

I have decided to continue with my studies at Staffordshire university by enrolling on the MA ceramic design course which I will begin in September 2019. My bachelor’s degree has given me a solid foundation in ceramics, but I still have so much to learn, and I am looking forward to continuing this journey of developing myself as a designer-maker.

8. What advice do you have for those currently studying ceramics in further education?

I would say try to enjoy the process of learning and experimentation as much as possible and don’t worry too much about the final outcome! Being a student allows you that freedom to really explore and develop your ideas; sometimes they don’t work out the way you wanted them too but it all feeds into developing your own style and building your skills and knowledge.