Karine Hilaire
"I was born in France in the rocky back country of the Ardèche. My love for art, creating & making stems back to my parents who are always building and growing much of everything they needed to live. The forms I create are functional vessels, which often take on a sculptural nature. I combined inspirations from artisans crafts and the use of coloured as well as black and white patterns has become a signature in my work."
Upon completing a professional training in Paris at the Manufacture de Sèvres with artists and ceramicists, Karine founded a ceramic studio called l’Argilerie which quickly grew to over 150 members. She also teaches and develops workshops as well as organises events on clay & making. Karine’s main inspiration comes from artisan and crafts, especially basketry and textiles like the African wax printed batik and traditional Ikat textiles from India and Central Asia. Her pieces are colourful, playful and intuitive; creating an eclectic mix of unique motifs and forms.