WOMEN OF MARLOW | Staci Coble
Welcome to our tenth 'Women Of Marlow' blog - a series where we interview like-minded women in business. Today, we shine a spotlight on Staci Coble, the creative force behind Flow Studio, a haven for bespoke handmade ceramics. We discussed her journey from a lockdown passion project to a thriving ceramic artist, her inspiration and the challenges of balancing artistry with entrepreneurship.
Can you tell us about Flow Studio, and how you got to where you are today?
Flow Studio is dedicated to creating small batch, bespoke handmade ceramics. I started Flow Studio as a passion project. I had some experience in ceramics growing up and in 2021 I started teaching at The Clay Centre for fun. During the last lockdown, the owners of the studio were kind enough to lend me a wheel and everyday I practiced, honing my craft. After that lockdown, I decided to pivot my career into ceramics - a subject I was already strongly passionate about.
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
My inspiration mostly comes from my love for the ocean and nature. When I’m at the beach, you can always find me collecting shells and taking note of the designs on them. I also draw inspiration from furniture design and architecture.
What do you like most about ceramics?
The versatility it offers in achieving a desired outcome. There’s such a wide range of techniques and skills being used, which in turn provides numerous paths to the same result, creating a sense of infinite exploration and creativity. The thought that even after decades of dedication in ceramics, there will still be room for learning, experimentation and growth which really excites me.
Do you have a favourite form?
The moon jar, with its simple and elegant shape. This form requires precision and balance in its construction. It can pose challenging at times, which I love.
What is the most challenging part about your work as an artist?
The reality that I can't be just an artist! Balancing the demands of being a brand owner and juggling all of the tasks outside ceramics including social media management, photography, marketing, packaging, and shipping, among others. It’s solely myself behind Flow Studio Ceramics. While it can be overwhelmingly exhausting at times, I’m driven by the desire to expand my brand and continue to make ceramics professionally. Despite the challenges, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion in a professional capacity each day.
What advice would you give to someone who is just beginning and wants to learn the art of ceramics?
Practice, practice, practice. Experiment. Fail. Make mistakes and learn how to fix them. Do your own research. Join a local studio so you can surround yourself with other makers and challenge yourself outside your boundaries.
Are there any recent projects you would like to tell us about?
I have my first solo exhibition this November and I'll also be releasing a furniture collection this year, so keep your eyes peeled!
How would you describe your personal style and how has this evolved over the years?
My personal style is a combination of relaxed and timeless. I grew up in a small beach town in California, so growing up my style was very beachy, but has become more refined over the years.
At Marlow, our clothing is designed to be an anchor in a woman’s wardrobe - timeless and practical. What key pieces make up your wardrobe?
My go-to outfit is usually a t-shirt and denim shorts/jeans. I appreciate the simplicity in throwing on a crisp blazer to pull an outfit together - it’s an essential for me.
What do you love most about Marlow?
Marlow’s timelessness and ease of mixing and matching. There are so many versatile staple pieces that you can keep in your wardrobe for years.
Pictured: Left - Daily L/S Sweat - Ivory, Inverse Legging | Right - Chalet Funnel Neck Knit, Match Cargo - Bone
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