Uncovering ceramic stories
- Kelsey creates ceramics inspired by ancient forms and unearthed vessels
- Her pieces feature organic shapes and natural colours with a raw clay finish
- She has exhibited internationally at festivals and events in the USA, Italy and Paris
In 2019, Kelsey Floyd’s creative trajectory shifted significantly. Previously a successful digital fashion content creator, she turned to clay for calm and solace as the pandemic unfolded. Kelsey learned the craft via experimentation, YouTube and a few classes. She began to channel her social media storytelling skills into documenting her progress and soon found an eager audience. Kelsey’s vessels often feature adornments such as mobile clay chains and woven pine needles, and draw inspiration from archaeology and ancient forms of art. “Storytelling is an underlying focus in all my work,” she says. Her raw clay finished pieces are hand thrown and often reference the shapes of ancient urns and amphora, decorated with extruded, hand shaped clay chains.
INTERVIEW
My father was a contractor who made tile murals for his own enjoyment. As a child, art and hobbies were supported, and I explored classes from basket weaving to drawing, but art largely escaped me in adulthood. Interestingly, when I was younger, I wanted to study archaeology.
My primary inspiration comes from observing ancient art and studying unearthed vessels from past eras. I am fascinated by the wonders and stories left behind by our ancestors.
I use raw clay as a finish for my pieces, adding interest through texture and visual details. Preserving the natural unglazed earth-tones keeps the vessels faithful to ancient designs, while also allowing the chains to remain mobile rather than fused.
Working with clay is therapeutic. I find the process comforting and relaxing with a sense of rhythmic release. The pieces I make reflect my deepest self, and sharing them with others creates a sense of meaningful connection.
