5 Things We Learned... Lilly Sauen
Lilly Sauen’s otherworldly ceramics draw us into something that feels almost prehistoric, but equally futuristic fantasy. The colours and textures are wholly unique. Each labor-intensive work is hand-formed and shaped with the aid of a kiln and Sauen’s deep imagination.
Here are 5 Things We Learned about Lilly.
What made you...you?
I had a very unconventional upbringing, so I think a huge part of who I am is connected to feeling slightly out of the mainstream and not knowing exactly how to operate in the ways expected. It’s a blessing and a curse because it’s given me a different perspective and a creative well, but it’s also caused me to feel like an outsider at times. I am grateful for the gifts it's given me.
My parents were both artistically talented but lived a life which didn't allow them to explore their abilities. I think that’s been a driving factor in overcoming the barriers I’ve faced, to be able to do what they couldn’t. I do feel like I've broken a curse in a way. Showing that it’s possible to follow dreams through adversity will be my lineage.
My mother was very eccentric in her style and my father has exquisite taste, so I was surrounded by beautiful things growing up. In contrast, but beautiful in another way, our home was dilapidated and chaotic. I think this is how I feel in myself and it shows outwardly. In my work this combination of beauty and chaos, things being perfectly scarred, the cracks being where the light gets in, this is what really excites me.
When are you happiest?
Listening to music and reading the paper on the tube. Connecting with people, seeing and being seen. Dancing. When I hit flow making art. Walking really far through the city, it’s absolutely heart stoppingly beautiful. The sea.
Would you rather have a muse or be a muse?
I have had a few muses in my life, and they possess a quality that I don’t, this ethereal quality, it's light. Muses bring so much inspiration and love into my life, I would always prefer to have one than be one.
Who do you admire?
I love to learn and learning by watching people who show grace in action is so exciting to me. My siblings and best friends teach me constantly. I have endless admiration for them.
What is important?
So many things. I have always been a very sensitive person, but the tough parts of life sometimes meant that I had to become detached to survive. Learning to feel the feelings and acknowledge the experiences I have has been such an important lesson. Life is important, the moments we have here are precious.
Portrait and all images provided by courtesy of Lilly
