Behind The Counter- June
Welcome to Behind the Counter. Take a glimpse behind the scenes at Thistle & Bess to connect with people who inspire, hear the thoughtful stories behind the goods that I love and find out what is currently sparking joy in my life.
It's no secret that I am a lover of flowers and gardening. This is something that I share with our friend and local artist Avery Williamson. When I saw that Avery had a new collection of flower art I was instantly in love. The color and texture in Avery's work is just so joyous. I know that I will be adding one of her new flower works to my personal art collection, the problem is choosing which one!
I am also a huge fan of Avery's newsletter, Studio Notes. They are filled with inspiring images from her studio along with short "Painting Reminders" which can be great reminders to us all. Where some newsletters can feel overwhelming (ours included!!) I look forward to Avery's quick and thoughtful reminders. A fun and uplifting read. I highly recommend signing up!
If you have been following along with T&B over the years, you most likely know Emily LoPresto. Emily is the glue that holds the shop together and keeps things running smoothly. I truly don't know what I would do without her! What you might not know is that outside of the shop Emily is a very talented ceramicist as her full time gig. She makes clean and colorful designs meant to be used and enjoyed every day. I recently asked Emily some questions about her design process and what is inspiring her.
What led you to start making ceramics?
As a child, I always wanted to be an artist, but I didn't enjoy drawing or working with 2D mediums. I discovered pottery at the age of 12 when my mother signed me up for a wheel throwing class at the Ann Arbor Center. I continued to take courses and focused on ceramics throughout high school. Afterward, I attended the College for Creative Studies, where I graduated with a major in Crafts, focusing on Ceramics.
Do you have a favorite piece in your collection?
My Bottom Curve 10 oz mug is the first piece I created in my current line of work, and it has always been my favorite. As a tea drinker, I find the a smaller size is perfect for enjoying a cup of tea.
What is your favorite part about running a creative business? Least favorite?
I love that whenever I have an idea for something I want to create, I can make it! I've never been one to sketch or write down my ideas; instead, they float around in my head until they are fully formed. My least favorite part of the business is bookkeeping and website development.
You are busy traveling to art shows around the country this summer. Do you have a favorite part about participating in shows? Do you have a favorite art show to attend?
My studio is in a basement, and I spend a lot of time with my pieces while they are in progress but very little time enjoying the finished pieces. It’s nice to see my work displayed in the sunlight and to hear people's reactions, like how they find the colors “refreshing” or “different.”
My favorite art fair has always been the East Lansing Art Festival. It was one of the first shows where I did well, and it made me feel like I could have a future with art fairs. Plus, my sister lives in Lansing, so I get to see her and all her pets!
What is currently bringing you joy or inspiring you?
Talking to the artists I know about their work and successes is always inspiring. It creates a positive feedback loop for motivation. Most of us work alone in our studios and while we do like it that way it is fun when we all get together at shows.
I am a total history nerd and I have always had an obsession with the quirky, eccentric and unbelievable Mitford Family. Consisting of 6 sisters (and one brother) each with very distinct and strong viewpoints and interests, you could not make up a more interesting story. The sisters became socialites in 1920's London during the time of the Bright Young Things and then got involved in the extreme politics of the day as well.
I have read so many books about the family, but on June 19 they are finally releasing a mini series about them on the BBC titled Outrageous and I just can't wait.
The NY Times recently published an article about the family, the upcoming series and the jewelry worn by the sisters. I particularly enjoyed the article, as it speaks to the jewelry of the era as well. I actually purchased an insect brooch that belonged to Deborah Mitford from an auction (which is mentioned in the article). It is a prized possession of mine. I am counting down the days to the premiere!
