Portrait of The Month / Clotilde de Kersauson

1°) Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your background?

I am half Italian, half french. After studying Sculpture & Textiles a while ago in London, at Chelsea College of Art, I went on to have a career as a textile designer. First in  Sydney, Australia, where worked closely with a Japanese designer, and then between Paris and Milan mostly designing knitwear when i moved back to Europe.

I moved with my family to Lisbon 6 years ago on a ‘ coup de tête ‘. Lisbon seemed liked a perfect environment to raise a family.

2°) Can you explain why you decided to work in Lisbon? How has it changed your approach to your project?

Lisbon’s slightly more laid back rhythm gave me the opportunity to take time to learn new things. Margaux brought me to a ceramic class in 2019, and i was hooked straight away, it took me back to the pleasure i had discovering it years ago. The surrounding azuleijos is an infinite source of inspiration.

3°) Could you tell us about the project you are working on and what you would like to explore in the coming months?

After a year working on tiny delicate porcelain pieces, I decided to work on some hand built larger pieces for Lisbon by design. I have used some very coarse, sandy grès. I brought in some pattern and texture. I had a nostalgic thought for lost civilisations. I feel the series i am presenting is the beginning of  a story. I would like to develop the color in a second series.

4°) Could you name one Portuguese artist you admire or who has inspired you?

I admire the work of Fernanda Fragateiro. I love the way she works across fields, i love her use of space and materials & the way she invites the spectator to interact with her pieces. They always move me.

5°) Can you tell us about one spot in Lisbon that inspires you?

Any view of the Tagus when it shines. The silver reflection clears my mind.

6°) How do you see the evolution of the Lisbon creative community?

The sense of creative community has been very strong since the day i have arrived in Lisbon. It has been warm and welcoming. The community is open and helpful. There is a great sense of belonging even if you are a foreigner. We are now very Lucky to have people like Julie de Halleux to put forward the great creatives of Lisbon & Portugal.