Qwetch x MYRIAM AÏT AMAR

Hello Myriam. Could you tell us about yourself in a few words?
I have always been drawn to arts and crafts, and in 2005, I discovered the world of ceramics. I didn’t just get to learn about a profession; it was a way of living. I am incredibly sensitive to the objects surrounding us, so for me, creating ceramics is also about creating the world you live in, and bringing beauty into your everyday life.

There is something very soft, soothing, and poetic about your work. How did you develop your creative streak?
When you work and experiment a lot, you discover your own style, your own way of working. I certainly didn’t know all the skills, but by trying to find ways of making the kind of objects I dreamt of creating, I found my own techniques. I focused on light and shade, and very soon that brought me into the world of porcelain. What I create now is not so much due to learning a particular technique, it is rather the result of the path my life took.

Can you talk to us about people or artists who have influenced your work?
There is one artist who has really captured my imagination for years. Her name is Lyndie Dourthe and her creations have a touch of both imaginary and gloomy features. You may not notice a direct connection between her work and mine, but she is a very inspiring artist. I also really admire the work of carolinesweetmemories and I am very lucky to know her. She is someone I can talk to and we can discuss artistic ideas. Her photos are like poems captured in pictures.

Where do you actually work? Could you tell us briefly about your workshop?
For the past two years, I have been working from my workshop in the old town of Forcalquier, in the Alpes de Haute-Provence region of France. If you walk around my neighbourhood, you will see facades dating back to the 17th century and doors that are over 200 years old. My workshop is a very simple place: calm and white. It is like a cocoon where I spend my days enjoying my work, but it is starting to become a little cluttered now!

What are your future projects?
My partner began working with me a few years ago and we are planning on getting a bigger space so we can centralise and simplify our business, and maybe even get another helping hand. It isn’t an art project but a way to further establish my existing work.

Are there things that you do on a daily basis to help save the planet and fight waste?
There is still a long way to go. Two years ago, I decided that I should start doing my part to fight plastic waste. I began with the bathroom and stopped using shower gels and shampoos in plastic bottles. I then began making some of my own products. I have also been making all my cleaning products for a little while now. I set myself small goals so that I can gradually incorporate new habits – and stick to them!