All images by Patricia Fernandes.
Today I am thrilled to introduce you to a lovely lass by the name of Patricia Fernandes, a Perth based ceramic artist and designer. I first spotted the work of Patricia at a Perth Upmarket one warm Sunday afternoon, and I was genuinely impressed by the unique collection and distinct look of her pieces, plus I couldn’t help pick up on the postive vibe she radiated to all market goers! I contacted Patricia and she kindly agreed to contribute to a small piece I wrote for Pippa Jameson Interiors later last year. However, with new products and exciting things in the wings (plus the launch of The Orchard!) I thought it was time for a deeper dig into Patricia’s creative mind…
1. Firstly, how would you describe yourself in 5 words?
Ambitious, passionate, quick-witted, optimist and consistent.
2. Tell me a little about your background – what did you study and what path led you to what you’re doing now?
I have a BA in Fine Arts majoring in Ceramics and while studying I had aspirations initially to major in Fashion Design but after a 6 week stint in Ceramics I was hooked! I’ve always been good with change so I just diverted my path a little to study Ceramics. On the completion of my university degree I started making ceramic jewellery as I liked to play with the notion of ‘preciousness’ and body ornamentation. After being nagged to death by my lovely friends I bit the bullet and released my first jewellery range late 2009 and have since then been gradually expanding my range of products since then.
3. What does a typical day at work involve for you?
Ahhh….That’s a little bit tricky as I have a ‘day’ job or my ‘ceramic’ job? I currently work full time and have needed to start doing something ceramic related every night for about three to four hours. I used to only devote the weekend to my art practice (while fitting in family and social life), but no more! To be honest, I feel very fortunate and enjoy working the long hours because it all feeds my passion and makes me a happier person.
4. Obviously your collection has a distinct cultural theme – how did you come about this influence of ancient Indian prints?
Being of Indian heritage I had always been fascinated with patterns and colour. After the completion of my BA in Ceramics I was fascinated with the idea of working with a ‘blank canvas’ – Porcelain and adding patterns and colour onto it. It was a deliberate decision to find and use old Indian textile print blocks. I love antiques and the idea that I am using a print block that has been used countless times before me warms my heart. People are always amazed when I mention that all the prints I use are over 100 years old as the prints don’t seem to date .
5. Which artists, designers or styles do you look up to or are inspired by?
I admire a lot of artists and designers. Styles or time periods that inspire me are the Victorian and Edwardian period as well as the 70s and 80s.
6. As a small business in Perth, especially selling handmade, what is the biggest challenge you face?
The biggest challenge I face is exposure of my design label and avenues to sell my pretties to the public directly within WA. Don’t get me wrong, I’m super impressed that there are more handmade boutique market events popping up around Perth. But, like Oliver Twist would say “Please sir..I want more”!
7. What do you find most enjoyable about your creative process?
Everything! I enjoy product testing (even when it’s frustrating), the making process as well as everything else! I love using my creativity and quite frankly, I love how my mind works.
8. What would be a dream project for you and your business?
Only one? Sigh. I don’t think that’s possible! This is on my business bucket list – I would love to collaborate with a couple of ceramic manufacturing houses and see what fabulous things we could create!
9. What/where was the last great meal you ate?
In the city : Andaluz – a fantastic Tapas bar!
In Margaret river : Providores – amazing meals!
10. Where can we find your pretties?
Currently I’m stocked at:
Story Boutique – Floreat, WA
William Topp – Northbridge, WA
Willow and the Bowerbird – East Fremantle, WA
Yallingup Art Galleries – Yallingup, WA
Again, a big thank you to Patricia for your time and insight into the work behind your ‘pretties’! Keep an eye out over the NEW YEAR for a SPECIAL holiday giveaway – you could win a pair of Patricia’s beautiful handcrafted earrings!! You can check out the range amongst other goodies here, or head on over to her online shop. You can also catch Patricia at most Perth Upmarket stalls which are held every quarter around the city. See Perth Upmarket to subscribe for event info and details.
