On Making: Lucy Page
I make sculptural homeware, intended to blur the line between functional and non-functional art. The process is definitely what got me into making and therefore makes me happy, but also seeing the outcome of all the hours spent is very satisfying- so both!
I began making properly and learning different skills at university. I had an amazing casting tutor (Claire Baily- also an amazing artist) who got me really into it. The specific process I use is very lengthy so it makes the finished piece a triumph at times (sometimes not!). But being around other makers and going to exhibitions made me realise I wanted to do the same.
My ideas come from seeing things around me, mainly our day-to-day lives. My work is influenced a lot by the body and our domestic routines. I sketch a lot first. Then I take old work to manipulate and experiment some new ideas on to. Sometimes starting happens without trying, sometimes those are the best ideas. It is a process. It is not such an attractive one at times. It begins with drawing/measuring the idea to form into a jig or pattern. I use this to then make a plaster positive to create a mould from. Once I have the mould I can create multiples of the finished work. Knowing what the process leads to keeps me going. I build up the excitement of my new ideas in my head which drives me through. It is also a very physical process which is always engaging.
Sometimes you make something and realise you hate it and have to start again. But an idea is never wasted as it leads you to the next, so sometimes you never need to stop. When my work is released I feel both terrified and excited. I am a perfectionist - sometimes too much. But I also feel excitement and relief when I get some lovely feedback or see images in new peoples homes. The more my work is shared and loved the easier it gets. Every time I make something I say "oh this one is my favourite" ! But actually, I have recently decided my 'finger-food' bowl is definitely my favourite.
Lucy Page