Meet the Gift Shop Maker: Victoria Smith

Meet the artist behind Victoria Smith Ceramics…

What are three words that describe your personal aesthetic?

Boho , natural, rustic.

Tell us about your collaboration with Free People?

This season’s ceramics collection included a to-go steeping tea mug, a to-go coffee travel mug, 3 jewelry boxes, holiday mug, man mug , a pour over and mug set, a match striker, incense dish and a drinking bowl.

What was your inspiration for this project?

I had a lot of fun designing the holiday collection this year. Whenever I start a new project I always begin with my personal framework of style. Fiber arts are my second love, so a large portion of my work is always derived from Indian and boho textiles. After I have my roots down, I’ll throw in a little trendy flair (this year, I tried to sneak in a bit of southwestern/desert vibe). I’m super happy with the result. I definitely challenged my go-to color palette with this line.

How do you get yourself out of your comfort zone creatively?

One of the most challenging things facing me as an artist is how to constantly produce fresh new ideas. Working collaboratively with other artists and design-minded people is a surefire way to keep me on my toes.

Having a creative mind can be really tough. It’s a constant push and pull between highs and lows; feeling validated and successful is a daily struggle. You always have to have one foot off the ground. You can’t let yourself get comfortable. Trends change, designs change, people change. The world could throw you a curve ball at any given moment. It’s an exhilarating ride.

Your favorite thing about what you do?

I live in a world of endless possibility. Every thing I create has the potential for greatness in someone’s eyes. The only boundaries I encounter are the ones that I set for myself. Personal growth is limitless. I’m insanely grateful for all of the of above, but being an artist isn’t all unicorns and kittens. I work 14 hour days consistently, there is always clay in my hair, and sometimes things go really wrong and I lose an entire kiln load of work. But I wouldn’t give it up for the world. I’m happy living a life I creatively built for myself.

+ Shop Victoria Smith Ceramics here!

To see more of Victoria’s work follow her on Instagram.