Kate Sellers, founder of K.S. Creative Pottery, creates boldly brilliant ceramics that are brimming with character. Her lovingly handmade creations have become a staple of British ceramics, with her now iconic face plates being stocked at stores such as Liberty.
It’s been an absolute pleasure to sit down with Kate and chat to her as part of our Meet Our Makers series. We believe that the independent makers, artists and designers that we work with around the world become the fabric of our LAMP LDN community and the driving force behind our ethos, and it’s been fabulous to hear about Kate’s story, her making process and her inspirations.
Tell us about your journey - how did the business begin?
I began making pottery when my friends bought me a course for my birthday. This was shortly after I lost my Dad and I found the process of making in clay extremely therapeutic. When lockdown hit I had moved home to Kent and the local studio was a new place of solace. Eunice, who owns the studio, leant me a wheel and I moved it into my shed - she knew I would struggle without being able to make.
My work as a prop and set stylist had stopped due to COVID and I spent my days making and photographing my pieces. This was getting me more and more attention on instagram, and before I knew it I had grown a decent following including a buyer from Liberty, and of course LAMP LDN.
So, that’s how K.S.Creative Pottery sprang into life!
Is there anyone in your life who has had a lasting influence on your taste and style?
My mum has always collected blue and white china, which must have influenced me. I have travelled to Sicily over the last 23 years to stay with my best friend from University and her family. The family has an outstanding collection of artisinal vintage pottery which I love, and Sicily has always been a true source of inspiration with its colour and rich history for ceramics.
What, would you say, are the biggest inspirations for your creations?
Sicily, without a doubt, but also a love of colour and things that spark joy.
Do you have a favourite moment of your making process?
I love the throwing and turning process. It’s so tactile and it requires absolute focus.
Tell us about your supply chain - where do you source your materials? Do you try to remain conscious of longevity and sustainability?
Absolutely. I source my clay from Staffordshire and I use a local supplier as much as possible. I also keep all of my packaging eco-friendly, using paper packaging as often as I can.
Tell us something you love about your own home?
I am yet to own my own home, but I cannot wait to decorate and fall in love with it!
What’s your favourite thing about being an independent maker?
The beauty of working for your self and taking each day as it comes. This comes with its own difficulties, of course. But as I drive to my studio down the country lanes I remind myself of just how lucky I am.
Meet the Maker Quick Fire Round
Your favourite cocktail
Amaretto sour
Your ideal Sunday morning
In bed with a delicious coffee, then a walk with the dog to brunch
We’re coming round for dinner - what’s on the menu?
Mexican with all the sides and dips, and Margaritas
Your rainy afternoon comfort movie
Burlesque. I love Cher! Or for something more high brow I’d say Blue Valentine. The music is my all time favourite
Your favourite pick from the current LAMP LDN collection (that isn’t something of yours!)
I’d have to say a Harlie Brown Studio plate or an Amuse La Bouche tea towel. But the whole shop, full to the brim with beautiful pieces that always catch my eye when I deliver.