Meet Emma Lakey, the founder and artist behind Lofi Ceramics. Locally-based in Amiskwacîwâskahikan, Lofi Ceramics is a pottery line defined by clean and functional shapes. Each ceramic piece is thoughtfully handmade by Emma and either inspired by the sapphic form or embraces her nostalgia for vintage graphics through beautiful surface illustrations. Ultimately, Lofi Ceramics serves as a vessel for Emma's self-expression and wherever that may take her. In this interview, we get the opportunity to chat with Emma about Lofi Ceramics' beginnings, her definition of sustainability, life's small pleasures for her in this moment, what her creative process looks like and what she's look forward to in the future.
Can you tell us about Lofi Ceramic’s beginnings? How has it grown and evolved since?
I started pottery classes at Viva Clayworks as a child and have been in ceramics for over 16 years. Having worked as a studio technician and instructor for years and after a while, it felt like the natural progression of my relationship with ceramics. Using Instagram as a jumping off point, I eventually found myself selling wares at local markets and stores. The pandemic did function as a catalyst of sorts, encouraging the idea of Lofi Ceramics as something I could pour my mental, physical, emotional and creative energy into. I am now finding myself in a place of deep growth and development both within my brand and my creative process.
Your definition of sustainability?
In regards to my personal material consumption, I feel as though sustainability is a subconscious constant, actively rejecting fast fashion and heightened consumption, opting instead for second hand or ethical options.
Sustainability within art and design varies so much from one discipline to another; however in ceramics, we are lucky enough to have the option to reuse and recycle our materials indefinitely. During the wet stages, every pot that doesn’t make it and all of the scraps throughout the making process can be blended down and wedged back into new clay! Recycled clay has the added beauty of being somewhat unpredictable, coming out with marbled veins of different clay bodies.
What makes you excited about your work with Lofi Ceramics?
I’m at a place where I can see so much space for growth and experimentation and I have the time to do so, which I feel so grateful for.
Something you love about working with clay and something you don’t love about it?
Nothing is really as ruined as you may think it is as clay allows you to save almost any piece, molding and mending any cracks or faults. Conversely, my skin is in a constant state of dismay as all of the moisture that isn't stolen by the Albertan climate is absorbed by the clay.
Who/what/where are some of the influences you draw on in your creations?
Spending my years in university studying Classical Greco Roman art and design has proved to be a huge influence in my work, providing endless forms and illustrations for me to reference. I also find that many of my patterns draw inspiration from the work of Henri Matisse.
What Lofi Ceramics pieces are the most fun for you to make?
What Lofi Ceramics pieces are the most fun for you to make?
Lately I’ve been enjoying the surface decoration aspect of my work, making vessels that lend themselves to experimental design with glaze and pattern!
What are life’s small pleasures for you right now?
My morning latte, tending to my plants, losing to my girlfriend at cribbage.
As an artist, there’s a sense that you need to be in a constant state of production and always showing new work. What is something you’ve been working on that requires longevity?
Ceramics as a whole requires so much time and patience. When I’m not actively making something, I am carefully drying it, babying the handles that I’ve attached, waiting for the kilns to cool enough to peek inside.
Something that recently challenged you?
Finding a way to balance teaching and doing work at two studios while also making pieces and content for Lofi has been an interesting challenge. After much trial and error I’m finally getting into a routine that is working better for me!
A few of your favourite restaurants, cafes and/or shops in Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton)?
Glass Bookshop - why would you get your books from anyone but these amazing folks
Next Act - great vegetarian food! Plus the heated patio means that eating outside can be done rain or shine
Hideout Distro - the best place to find beautiful prints, locally made goods and wicked vintage
Take Care Cafe - the best latte and bagel that is conveniently on my way to both of the studios I work at!
What does your creative process look like?
Usually it involves me sitting at the wheel with a warm bucket of water and a dozen balls of clay, playing with forms and seeing what works for me that day. If I’m having an off day for throwing, I’ll usually stop after a few pots and shift gears to decoration.
How do you inform yourself throughout the day? What are you listening to, reading and watching?
While throwing at the wheel I am almost always listening to a podcast or watching a show l. Lately I’ve been hooked on Critical Role, a DND podcast, and a number of Scandinavian Crime Fiction shows - though the social nature of the studios I work at often lend themselves to some Brazilian Jazz or Fleetwood Mac’s greatest hits.
Tell us about the first ceramic piece you made and the latest piece you made.
I wish I could remember the first piece I made, though I do recall making a Halloween themed cat sculpture early on. The latest would be some larger scale vases to play with more colourful decoration.
In the near future, what are you looking forward to most?
Taking the summer to rest in the sun and do as much work as I can outdoors! I’ve been playing with checker designs and painted illustrations that I hope to make into a collection soon.
