
Annie Lyle
Born: 1994
Hometown: London
Based in: London
Born: 1994
Hometown: London
Based in: London
I am inspired by the natural world around us, particularly around water. This is how I found my name Ula, it means jewel of the sea. What I observe in nature flows through me and into my ceramics. This is why I chose clay as my main medium, I feel the same energy being around nature as I do working with this material. It’s earthy, alive and has memory.
My ceramics are both functional and sculptural. With them, I aim to remind people of earth’s beauty and our connection to it.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by the shapes, creases, veins and colours of nature. I see plants as their own sculptures that I want to appropriate and recreate.
Describe your creative process.
I’m a hand builder so all pieces are made by coiling and using moulds. I’ll go into my studio, prepare my space with tools, wedge the clay and start building whatever I feel like in the moment. None of my pieces are the same.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Organic and beautifully imperfect.
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
The main three are Anna Mendieta, Giuseppe Penone and Adeline De Monseignat.
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
A wet sponge helps me to carve out and perfect the curves I create. Especially in my pots
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Never stop making.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Back into nature and away from my phone.
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