How do you describe what you do?
I am a visual designer and illustrator who likes to explore different ways to express myself. As much as I am excited by the latest technologies and their promise, I am equally or more intrigued by the magic of making things by hand. Clay and ceramics are my newfound love that lets my whimsical world to break out of the two-dimensional to the three-dimensional one.
How did you start in art / design?
During the pandemic lockdown, I did an online hand-building workshop out of curiosity. I loved how versatile clay is and enjoyed working with my hands. Working with clay gave me peace of mind and helped me cope with the times. Soon after the lockdown, I did a wheel-throwing weekend course from Claystation Bengaluru India. The Claystation community and my mentor Aastha Sahal were very welcoming and are a big reason why I got hooked on pottery. The more I learned about pottery the more inspiring it got.
What would your top tips be for anyone considering taking up art/design?
When I started pottery I was quite impatient and restless. Pottery let me slow down and enjoy the process. It also helped me embrace my failures with ease. I realized there are certain things you can't do too slowly or too fast. You can't trim a pot that is too wet or if it is too dry. Practicing and planning helped me a lot.
When you have the dreaded creative block, where do you get your ideas and inspiration from?
What I usually do is create without any expectations. I rely on my impulses and intuition. My Instagram page is like my visual journal where I try to document my thought process, tools, or anything inspiring without any regard for rules or expectations. Play is key to getting away from creative blocks. Don't take things too seriously.
What piece of work or project are you most proud of?
I would say that my only exhibition (group) as of now as part of the student showcase at Claystation, Bengaluru was something I felt very proud of as I managed to make several pieces that were appreciated and bought by friends and visitors alike. (A picture of my exhibits with my mentor below)
Any books on your shelf or exhibitions and events coming up you can recommend?
I am currently reading 'Ceramic Art and Civilization' by Paul Greenhalgh.
Why is Colchester Makerspace important to you/or and your work?
When we moved to Colchester from India, we were looking for a place where I can keep working on my pottery. We were very excited to find an affordable and beautiful space in Makerspace. Abbey, our host has been very supportive and helpful at all times. I joined the pottery and glaze workshops by Makerspace which helped me jump-start my practice and familiarize me with the space.
I love being in the space and getting inspired by other fellow members' projects, stories, and the creative ways they apply their skills. I am very grateful to meet like-minded people and the opportunity to learn from them. I especially like the fact that it's a collaborative space for printmaking, pottery, and others. Seeing the energetic Patch team working nearby is the icing on the cake. There is always something inspiring around. Being part of the studio made us feel very welcome in a new country.
Anisha’s work will be on display and available to buy for the month of June at Patch in front of the Makerspace at Trinity Works.