I love the simplicity and quiet nostalgia of this understated piece. It reminds me of a quote from one of my favorite movies, when Kathleen Kelly tells Joe Fox how she loves daisies because they are the friendliest flower. Flowers are a really steady source of inspiration for me. My fam and I plant two gardens each spring/summer - one for flowers and another for fruits and veggies. We occasionally will forage flowers and put them in a little mason jar or in one of my bud vases on the window sill in our kitchen. This painting feels personal, intimate, and happy.
"The Future is Bright" by Hillary Howorth
I think we all need a little bright spot in our lives right now. I’ve been really feeling yellow recently…coming from someone who can be afraid of more bold colors and color combinations, this is saying a lot. Hillary’s painting gives me all the good Frank Stella and Mark Rothko vibes with her use of graphic design and vibrating color.
"Mosaïque XX" by Amanda Petro
Amanda and I used to share a studio and her process fascinates me. I have never seen another artist work quite like she does. It always impresses me when an artist finds a new and unique technique and aesthetic. Amanda is another bold colorist I admire, challenging me to step out of my comfort zone. Her mosaics are high on my list for my next art purchase.
Tell us about yourself and your blog, brand, or business.
Hey y’all! I’m Susan Gordon, Founder, CCO, and Owner of Susan Gordon Pottery. My team and I design and create handmade pottery, framed clay intaglios, and jewelry from squishy wads of humble clay. Our aesthetic is classic at its core, but purposefully ever-evolving. I have two rambunctious kiddos, ages 4 and 6, that keep me laughing and exhausted.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
Fashion and textiles have always been a huge source of inspiration for my work. My mother’s side of the family is from France and they were all in the textile industry. I was lucky enough to inherit my Great Grandmother’s tatting and a hand woven piece by my Great Grandfather. Mood-boarding with Pinterest and magazines have become a big source of inspiration for me, as well. Lately, I am pinning and cutting out a lot of flowers, wallpaper, and plaster relief. This process helps me to pin point something I am loving, even if I am not sure how it relates back to my work just yet. Eventually, the process informs my work, but it might take years!
Do you recall your first piece of artwork? We would love to hear details!
I don’t think I can recall my very first one in all of life, but I’ll tell you about my first piece of pottery! I took wheel-throwing my sophomore year of college. This was my very first introduction to ceramics. I made a tiny, dumpy round pot with a bulky lid. At the time, I was so proud to have made “something” and spent way too many hours carving a floral leafy design on the outside. I ended up accidentally firing the lid on the pot and it fused to it.
What is your most cherished piece of art—whether a child’s drawing or a priceless piece?
OOH this one is hard. But I would say, my kiddo’s art is pretty special to me. They are both really creative and imaginative and I hope that I am able to help them cultivate that part of their brain, whether that ends up being their vocation, or not.
