FK chats to Melbourne based designer Laureen about her ceramics label, Lavallièr
Tell us about your lovely label and where the name originates from?
Lavallièr is designed and handcrafted with 100% Australian Porcelain. It is made using the finest grade of Australian produced porcelain each piece is hand made, shaped and sanded, so a rather laborious process.
The name Lavallièr is French for pendant my boyfriend actually helped me source the name. Both my initials start with ‘L’, though unfortunately I have a rather long name and just didn’t have the ring to it.
How did you get into jewelery & object design?
I have a Fine Arts Degree and have dabbled in a range of creative practices. It grew out of sculpting with porcelain in my studio one day, making wearable objects for myself and friends saying ’you should sell these’ that was a years ago now.
What do you love about working with ceramics?
I was never fond of working with ceramics when I was a kid I remembered being in art class and hated the way it zapped all the moisture out of your hands, but porcelain is somewhat different. I use one of the finest grades of Australian porcelain, which comes from Tasmania. It is super fine quality, almost velvety in texture.
Who or what inspires you and your work?
I find inspiration from internal structures of microscopic organisms and delicate fine antique china. Lavallièr is a fusion of the ornate and ancient Chinese pottery, image transfer techniques and textured surfaces. Creating a product range of pendants, earrings, porcelain rings, bangles, brooches, unisex cufflinks and one off pieces for those who are not afraid and have a bold sense of style.
What is your creative space like?
My studio is located in a warehouse with a range of artists sharing the space. Though its nothing glamorous it’s a fantastically active, energetic and inspiring place to work. I share a large space with two other amazing artists and it can get quite messy, though a confined mess. That’s what you get when working with ceramics!
What are you currently working on and what have you got planned for the future?
I am always expanding my range, in particular I am working on developing new one of a kind pieces. I love the originality and uniqueness of one off pieces they are extra special and enjoy seeing customers eyes light up when they discover them.
