We crossed paths with Tamiko Hobbs in Hawaii, when making arrangements to shoot our latest Solstice collection campaign in and around Waikiki. As a model, we were drawn to her earthly quality which seems to resonate so intimately with the raw energy of the Hawaiian landscape, so we were somewhat unsurprised to discover that she is an incredible artist - a ceramicist - crafting 'earth forms with intention' from clay. Post shoot, we asked Tamiko to tell us about her practice, her in studio rituals, and what it all means to her beyond the product.
Please introduce yourself.
My name is Tamiko Claire. Iʻm from Nuʻuanu on the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi.
When did you first start working with clay, and what drew you to ceramics?
I first started ceramics as my elective in 9th grade. I think it was the hands-on aspect of that form of art that drew me in. I loved it so much and continued studying it at the University of Hawaii then as a hobby/independent study when I lived in Japan and New York.
We crossed paths with Tamiko Hobbs in Hawaii, when making arrangements to shoot our latest Solstice collection campaign in and around Waikiki. As a model, we were drawn to her earthly quality which seems to resonate so intimately with the raw energy of the Hawaiian landscape, so we were somewhat unsurprised to discover that she is an incredible artist - a ceramicist - crafting 'earth forms with intention' from clay. Post shoot, we asked Tamiko to tell us about her practice, her in studio rituals, and what it all means to her beyond the product.
Please introduce yourself.
My name is Tamiko Claire. Iʻm from Nuʻuanu on the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi.
When did you first start working with clay, and what drew you to ceramics?
I first started ceramics as my elective in 9th grade. I think it was the hands-on aspect of that form of art that drew me in. I loved it so much and continued studying it at the University of Hawaii then as a hobby/independent study when I lived in Japan and New York.
Do you have any rituals or practices when you first step into your studio, to start working on new a piece? What is your ideal studio environment?
I guess when I think about it, yes I do :)
Take off my shoes, open the windows, and light incense. Iʻm usually walking in with coffee in my cup, but if not then Iʻll make some. I take some time picking out music to listen to off my speaker because that is one element that affects my flow heavily. Lately Iʻve been lucky to work on a variety of commissions, so Iʻll sit and review my notebook and whiteboard to see what needs to be done and what type of clay Iʻll work with.
My ideal studio environment is close to the outside world...natural light, trade winds blowing through, and quiet. A space that helps me feel free in myself.
We hear that clay has a way of teaching patience - has your practice changed/shaped the way you move through life outside of the studio?
I'd say yes but maybe not in a super obvious way. I think big picture, it has allowed me to move through the world in a way that doesn't feel confined. It helps me to be patient with and closer to myself on the path that I walk. But yes, the process of ceramics itself definitely requires patience and detachment to outcome - practices for life!
Has travel ever inspired a particular series or piece in your ceramics practice?
A trip to Sri Lanka a few years ago inspired some of the pop color glazes on darker clay. The color world in Sri Lanka - the landscape, textiles and how women dress is so beautiful.
Do you see a connection between the landscapes you travel through and the forms or textures you create in your work?
Definitely. The island of Hawaiʻi really has been the source of form and texture in much of my pieces. Time spent just existing there in nature's raw, perfect design humbles and refreshes my perspective every time...
Where was the last place you travelled to, just for yourself? What stayed with you from that experience?
The last place I traveled to just for myself was probably the island of Kauaʻi. I visited my friend and she took me camping out at Polihale straight off the plane. I try to remind myself of that freeing feeling of ruggedness and how good that realness feels. Time to go visit again haha.
Where to next?
Not sure yet! Hoping to visit Tahiti for the first time and definitely will go see my Obaachan (grandmother) in Kyoto, Japan soon. Before that, probably another little trip to the island of Hawaiʻi and Maui -- I donʻt really feel the need to go far...those interisland trips do a lot for me.