The creations of Marie-Claude Girard, both minimalist and modern, hold a special place in our boutique. That's why this month, we've given a voice to this passionate Quebec ceramic artist to unveil the secrets of her craft.
Ceramicist Marie-Claude Girard
What led you to work with clay?
Since I was young, I've been fascinated by the profession of ceramics. Two of my aunts had pottery studios and worked with clay, so it felt natural for me to turn to this medium once I completed my university studies.
What is your journey as a ceramicist?
I have been on my journey as a ceramicist for nearly 20 years now, and I have considered myself a professional for 15 years, as ceramics is my main occupation. I studied at the Bonsecours Ceramic Center and later moved to the Portneuf region to establish my business.
Cappucino mug
How did you start selling your pottery?
I started by selling directly at the Salon des métiers d'art in Montreal. After that, I sold in a few boutiques and took the leap into a larger exhibition in Toronto.
Coffee white bowl
Could you tell us about your artistic approach?
Since the beginning of my career in 2007, my relationship with ceramics has become much clearer and has become an extension of myself. My research always focuses on developing simple and timeless forms, but I love to add the pleasure of sensory experiences that comes with using my pieces to the enjoyment of balanced shapes. The textures and colors of the glazes, the patinas that form on the bare clay over time, become essential to the experience I love to offer people. Every detail of a piece is taken into account during its creation; from the choice of clay to the precision of throwing and trimming, as well as the application of glazes, all these steps have been perfected over the years to achieve the desired level of refinement. My joy in transforming materials remains the essence of my approach, and I aspire to explore this endless path of being a ceramist for a long time to come.
Galaxy cup
What is the biggest challenge in your profession?
Many challenges have arisen throughout my career, but currently, as I approach my fifties, the main challenge is managing the pace of production. The inevitable wear and tear that comes with a physically demanding profession like ceramics is becoming increasingly noticeable.
