What do you do at work each day?
Between 8am and 10am I'm usually busy with operational matters between the studio, product development and suppliers, and the needs of our retail staff. Then, depending on where I'm based, this will determine what I do with the rest of the day, which is either at our studio in Robertson or at our stores based in Johannesburg.
Typically, if I'm at the studio I get rigorously involved in the manufacturing process, which includes design, packaging and product development. When I'm in Johannesburg I'll be busy going between the two stores, the one in Rand Steam, Richmond, and the other in the Soko District at the Rosebank Mall.
What drew you to ceramics?
I don't think you choose ceramics; ceramics chooses you. The moment I felt the clay between my fingers I had the realisation that in my hand I held endless possibilities. This is the reason so many people start ceramics as their hobby, they fall in love with it. I am lucky enough to have created a business out of my passion and the need to re-imagine the very nature of clay.
At first, I only wanted to create original and creative pieces for myself and for friends, because I just found the ceramics market to be a bit bland. I wanted a robot or a skull, I wanted unique, affordable, functional art in my home. The reaction to Rialheim surprises and humbles me still. I never anticipated being received by the commercial space in such an amazing way.
What are your most popular pieces?
Our ubuntu mugs. I feel they resonate with all of us as South Africans. It is a message of hope and unity we can all identify with. Having said that, customers don't necessarily know that they are buying this message until they reach the checkout; this proves that good designs sell and just need the right platform to do so.
What is your favourite piece?
My favourite piece at the moment is the "I am" vase. I remember the day we developed it, which was by complete accident. It was a Friday afternoon, after a long week, and we just decided to have fun and then this piece was born. I believe that this is when the Rialheim studio is at its best, when our team is being creative and free.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
We recently opened a store in Soko District. It has been a stimulating and unbelievably rewarding experience, and this is what drives my passion. With the store opening we had the opportunity to have an exhibition, "We believe our dreams unite us".
What did you want to be when you were a child?
I was lucky to have amazing parents who taught me from an early age to care about your neighbour. So, I always wanted to be a social worker. I achieved this dream and pursued it for a number of years. If the opportunity arose to do that again I wouldn't hesitate, and I would put all my energy into education. I have this love for people, and it would be inspiring to see the youth being properly educated. I still try to advocate for education in my strategic partnerships.
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