How do you describe what you do?
My main form of pottery is hand building because it gives you so many possibilities and freedom to really express yourself.
How did you start in art / design?
I have been potting on and off for the last 43 years. I studied ceramics in my hometown in Rovaniemi, Finnis Lapland. After graduating I have been doing pottery as a business and teaching. I was running pottery classes as therapy at the Lakes psychiatric hospital for 22 years which I enjoyed a lot.
What makes your work and/or process unique?
I would say my work is very neat as is my glazing, most of the time but I find it hard to pin point what makes my work unique. Some call it intricate and imaginative. I call it just Pirjo's pottery!
What would your top tips be for anyone considering taking up art/design?
When I started pottery I was quite impatient and restless. Pottery let me slow down and enjoy the process. It also helped me embrace my failures with ease. I realized there are certain things you can't do too slowly or too fast. You can't trim a pot that is too wet or if it is too dry. Practicing and planning helped me a lot.
When you have the dreaded creative block, where do you get your ideas and inspiration from?
If I get a creative block, believe me I have had many of those, I just stop and let my brain/mind rest as long as my sleep is interrupted by new ideas!
What piece of work or project are you most proud of?
There isn't any particular work/piece that I am proud of as I feel that every piece you successfully get out of kiln you should be proud of! Pottery is failing and succeeding but if you fail there is only one thing for you to do...try again and succeed!
Any books on your shelf or exhibitions and events coming up you can recommend?
I am currently reading 'Ceramic Art and Civilization' by Paul Greenhalgh.
Why is Colchester Makerspace important to you/or and your work?
My life changed when I found MakerSpace! It gave me a new lease of life as I thought I wouldn't have a chance to do pottery anywhere. I have met so many amazing people there, all very talented. I feel as if I have arrived home when I go there. Without MakerSpace I would be totally lost! All the staff are very knowledgeable and approachable. At the moment I am happy with things as they are.
Pirijo’s work will be on display for the month of September at Patch in front of the Makerspace at Trinity Works.