Artist Statement
My work explores the intersection of tactile ceramics, intuitive surface carving, and functional surprise. Inspired by a meditative zendoodling practice – rooted in focus, presence, and organic line work – I carve intricate patterns directly into soft underglazed clay, allowing the design to flow naturally around each piece’s three-dimensional curves.
I am drawn to small, palm-sized animal forms that double as musical shakers. These pieces play with duality: they exist simultaneously as intimate, interactive sculptures and hidden acoustic instruments. Responding to the unique contours of each animal shape as I carve adds a layer of playfulness and spontaneity to the work. The finished pieces invite people to connect through sight, touch, and sound.
Biography
Lily is a ceramic artist whose practice is driven by a curiosity for form, surface experimentation, and the natural world. Since first falling in love with clay in 2013, she has built a diverse portfolio that bridges functional ceramics and playful sculpture, consistently pushing beyond the realm of the ordinary.
Her work is deeply informed by nature and living creatures – ranging from frogs and insects to snakes and dragons – often incorporating direct imprints of organic textures into the clay. Lily’s technical process is defined by constant exploration; she frequently experiments with alternative firing methods, such as wood, soda, raku, and sawdust and expressive surface techniques like mocha diffusion, sgraffito, bubble glazing, stamping and intricate carving.
Whether hand-building or wheel-throwing, Lily approaches each body of work with distinct narrative energy. Her recent projects include a series of horses with whimsical tails, realistic ceramic footwear, personal character studies, and a series of intricately carved musical shakers.
Working out of her home and the Shadbolt Centre for the Arts, Lily is an active member of the Burnaby Potters’ Guild, the Fraser Valley Potters’ Guild, and the Richmond Arts Coalition.
Website: tigerlilypottery.com
Instagram: @tigerlilypottery