How do you describe what you do?
I am a maker of small things! I mostly crochet currently, but I dabble in small hand built ceramics and print making. I make cute little friends to bring joy, and I crochet fidget toys for people like me who are neurodiverse or have anxiety.
How did you get started on this journey?
I have been making art since I was a child, and honed a lot of my skills during A level art classes at secondary school. My ceramics journey started in 2019 when I came along to a Makerspace open day, then took a clay hand building class and learnt the basics. I just kind of ran from there, throwing myself into building tiny friends and experimenting with glazes.
My crochet art journey didn't start until later in 2021, when my cousin’s wife taught me how to crochet, and I haven't really stopped since!
What makes your work and/or process unique?
A lot of people tell me that they couldn't make what I make because they don't have the patience, but I love making small things. My ceramics usually reflect my interests and likes, because I just make what I want to make, and hope it brings others joy too.
I think my crochet is unique, as I write all my own patterns, and haven't seen anyone make as many different types of fidget toys as I do.
What other artists or makers do you admire? Why?
I love a lot of other ceramic and crochet artists, and often find myself being inspired whenever I walk into Makerspace and see all the gorgeous things being made in here.
When you have the dreaded creative block, where do you get your ideas and inspiration from?
I tend to just take a break when I'm not feeling creative. I haven't actually touched any clay for a good few months now because I haven't had any inspiration. My best advice is to do other things you love- read a book, go for a hike, hang out with friends; inspiration will come when it does, there's no point forcing it!
What advice/tips would you give to someone who is interested in starting what you do?
Just go for it! I know everyone says that, but it's true. You just need to start and see what happens, it doesn't matter how it turns out, it's all about having fun and honing skills that you want. Don't make something that you think you HAVE to make, just make what brings you joy.
Are there any exciting events/projects/experiences in the near future you want to share about?
I have just got some crochet pieces on a newly opened shop in Braintree, which is great! I love having my things in physical spaces.
What made you feel like, "yes this is something I want in my life"?
I just love sculpting. It's within me to just make STUFF. My full time job is making artificial limbs for amputees, which is great, but I don't have any creative freedom. Making what I want gives me that creative fulfilment I felt like I was missing.
Where do you want to see yourself in the future with this journey? Do you want this to be a long term?
I am writing up a lot of my crochet patterns currently, which will allow other people to enjoy my makes. I'm hoping I can continue to grow with my art and (rather selfishly) still make money from it. I love doing markets where I get to see peoples reactions to my work so I'm hoping that's something I can continue to do.
Do you do this as a hobby? Work? Side hustle?
It started as a hobby to keep my creative mind working when I started my full time job, but it has now turned into a "side hustle" I guess- it certainly takes up a lot f my free time and mind space!
What piece of work or project are you most proud of? If you have a picture of it please send it if you feel comfortable!
I'm usually proud of all my pieces, but I am probably most proud of my crochet cardigan that is made of scrap yarn from my mother-in-law, patients, and charity shops. (I'm wearing it in the photo of me below!)
Why is Colchester Makerspace important to you/or and your work?
I have been able to have access to the printing press and kiln (plus the sewing machine when it was there) which are all things I don't usually have access to. Everyone here has different nuggets of knowledge, and it's always great to learn something new from other people. I also believe the makers markets run my Makerspace are one of the best
Loui’s work will be on display and available to buy from June 11th at Patch in front of the Makerspace at Trinity Works.
Below is Loui’s socials where you can see more of their pieces and contact them with any interest of purchasing!