Mari Bray will join the TVM lineup for the first time this Sunday with her handmade collection of ceramics. Read on to find out more about an intriguing little vessel named Moringa and just what makes this creative tick.
TVM: Tell us about how and when your label was created?
MB: After nearly 15 years in the advertising industry working almost exclusively in front of a computer, I found myself missing the process of creating something by hand. In the middle of 2014, out of pure coincidence, I found myself enrolled in a ceramics course which brought me back to my childhood passion of pottery. From this point on I have been able to tap into my creative stream whilst getting elbow deep in mud.
That is how Mari Bray Modern Handmade Ceramics was created and I have never looked back!!
What pieces are included within your range?
My current collection is called ‘Life Is’ and has a number of pieces including the Brazilian ceramic water vessel, Moringa. This jug and cup combination is very well known to the Brazilian community and is commonly found on the bedside during the night maintaining the water cool whilst creating a feeling of indulgence.
The entire collection is inspired by flowers and wings and also includes a range of little vases, wall tiles and bowls all featuring gold wings and colourful flowers designed to inspire feelings of joy.
What is your creative background?
Born and raised in a large town in Brazil, I have been calling Australia home since 2002. I have always been passionate about prints and colours for as long as I can remember and completed a Bachelor of Visual Arts in Brazil. I have spent most of my working life surrounded by creative minds having worked in the advertising industry for over 15 years.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by the simplicity and beauty of life.
What's on your mood board?
I love collecting things for my mood board. There are a lot of images that inspired me for this collection such as ‘stillness’, ‘be’, ‘now’, ‘slow’, ‘bliss’, ‘balance’, ‘joy’, ‘let go’.
What’s your creative space like?
My studio is very colourful and has lots of little knicks-knacks that make me smile everyday.
What music do you listen to while designing/creating?
I usually tune into a station from Spotify and let it do it’s work. The station depends on my headspace of the day.
A day in the life of you consists of?
Juggling three little sons, making ceramics, running, hot yoga and library. I love going to the library!
Favourite TVM stall (besides yours of course)?
There are so many stalls that I love….it’s too hard to pick one
Favourite reads/blogs?
Pinterest and books to inspire.
What can we expect from the next collection/what are your plans for 2015 and beyond?
I am looking at creating wall tiles and personalize pieces and projects.
Why TVM?
It is an exciting opportunity to showcase my work to other local creative people. There is also a great atmosphere and vibe.
What do you love most about attending TVM?
It’s local, showcasing locals, for the locals and those visiting the Gold Coast, always meeting creative and inspiring people.
Connect with Mari Bray Ceramics:
Find Mari Bray this Sunday 15 February at TVM Burleigh Heads State School 8:30am - 1pm.