3. How would you describe your work in three words?

Joyful, tactile, timeless.

4. What materials or techniques do you use, and why are they important to your process?

I hand-build all my pieces using stoneware clay. Sustainability matters to me, so I work with recycled clay that’s carefully processed by our studio technicians, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

I primarily use coiling and slab-building techniques, which allow me to create organic, sculptural shapes. And then, of course, there’s the colour—bold, bright glazes are a signature of my work. I love the way they transform a piece, bringing warmth, energy, and personality to each one.

5. Can you tell us about a favourite piece you’ve created and the story behind it?

One of my favourites has to be the 200 ceramic coasters I made for my sister’s wedding. Each one was bespoke, stamped with the date on the back, and crafted with so much love. It was such a meaningful project—knowing that something I created would be part of such a special day made every moment in the studio feel even more rewarding.

6. What does a typical day in your studio look like?

My day starts with Yorkshire tea and settling into my favourite spot at the studio—it’s my little ritual. Then, depending on what’s on my to-do list, I might spend the morning hand-building new pieces, painting pots, or glazing. There’s something really satisfying about seeing a piece come to life, layer by layer. The process is both calming and energising, and I’m at my happiest when I’m fully immersed in it.

7. Do you have any unique rituals or habits that help you stay creative?

I always start my studio days with a mug of Yorkshire tea and a bit of quiet time, just to settle in. But beyond that, nature is a big source of inspiration for me—whether it’s a walk in the woods, time by the sea, or just paying attention to textures and colours around me. And when I feel creatively stuck, I step away. A change of scenery—whether that’s a walk, an exhibition, or just a break—almost always sparks something new.

8. How do you handle creative blocks?

I’ve learned to trust the process. If I feel blocked, I don’t try to force it—I step away, do something different, and let my brain reset. Sometimes, revisiting old sketches or experimenting with a new technique helps. And if all else fails, I remind myself that creativity isn’t linear—some of my best ideas have come when I least expected them.

9. What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a maker, and how did you overcome it?

Balancing creativity with the business side of things. As my work grew, I found myself juggling orders, logistics, and marketing—all things that can take you away from the creative process. I’ve had to learn to set boundaries, manage my time better, and accept that I can’t do everything at once. Having a strong support system—friends, fellow makers, and the amazing technicians at my studio—has helped me stay focused on what I love most: making.

10. What’s been your proudest moment or achievement so far?

Being asked to be a founding member of Makers Made was a big moment. The sense of community, especially among women makers, has been incredible. Seeing my work evolve over the years, gaining recognition, and being featured in the press—each milestone reminds me of how far I’ve come. It’s humbling, exciting, and always pushes me forward.

11. What’s your favourite quote about your work?

12. Where do you draw inspiration from for your work? What sparks your imagination and creativity?

Travel plays a huge role in sparking my creativity. A recent trip to Porto, with its stunning ceramics and tiled buildings, really set my imagination alight. Nature is another big influence—whether it’s the colours, textures, or shapes I find at the beach, in the woods, or wandering through the British countryside. Living in London also keeps me inspired, with its vibrant multicultural energy and all the exhibitions, festivals, and art happening around me.

13. Do you have a favourite artist, maker, movement, or tradition that has influenced your craft?

On a personal note, my grandad was a pottery and art teacher, so I grew up surrounded by his creations, which definitely shaped my appreciation for ceramics. My parents have a beautiful collection from artists like Springfield Pottery, Clive Bowen, and Sandy Brown. Last summer, I was fortunate enough to visit the studios of some of these incredible potters in Devon, and I even had the chance to try throwing with Philip and Franny Leach. The ceramic culture in that region left a lasting impression on me. I also draw a lot of inspiration from the Bloomsbury Group, particularly the Charleston Trust and Lee Miller’s house nearby. Those spaces are a real well of inspiration.

14. How does colour influence your practice; is it an important part of your process? Do you have a particular palette or favourites? Any go-to sources for colour inspiration?

Colour is a huge part of my practice—always has been. When I started creating Hodge Pots, the world felt a little gloomy, so I wanted to make a joyful, vibrant collection filled with bold colours and playful designs. Colour inspiration comes from absolutely everywhere: fashion shows, nature, magazines, even architecture and packaging! I’m especially drawn to different shades of green, along with blues and pinks—honestly, all of it speaks to me.

15. What role does your environment play in shaping your creativity?

My environment has a huge impact on my creativity. Living in North London, I’m constantly surrounded by energy, diversity, and art. It pushes me to think in new ways, explore different influences, and incorporate elements of the city’s eclectic spirit into my work. Whether it’s the buzz of the streets or the peaceful moments in nature, everything around me feeds into my creative process.

16. What do you want people to feel when they experience your work?

I want people to feel joy, fun, and warmth when they experience my work. I aim to create pieces that invite a sense of playfulness and make people smile. There’s a real warmth of spirit in what I make, and I hope it brings a little brightness into people’s lives.

17. What are you currently working on, and what excites you most about it?

Right now, I’m working on some exciting collaborations and workshops that will lead to an adventurous summer. It’s all a bit hush-hush for now, but I’m really looking forward to seeing where these projects take me and the new creative connections they’ll bring.

18. What advice would you give to someone starting out as a maker?

My advice would be to stay authentic to yourself—make for yourself first and foremost. If you’re true to your own vision, everything else will follow. Don’t get caught up in what others expect of you.

19. If you could go back to the start of your career, what advice would you give your younger self?

Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing. Even the mistakes have been part of my journey and helped refine my craft and my direction. Every experience—good or bad—shapes the path you’re meant to follow.

20. If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?

Without a doubt, I would collaborate with my grandad. He was such a huge influence on me, and it would be incredible to bring our creative worlds together.

21. Where can people find your work, and how can they support you?

You can find my work on Wonderful Makers Made, Maison Flaneur, and Dominca Marland. Of course, you can also visit my website, www.hodgepots.com, to see more of what I’m creating and how you can support my work.

Nikki Seymour’s hand-painted ceramics celebrate colour, sustainability, and a deep connection to place. Through Hodge Pots, she brings together playful design, conscious making, and a love for everyday beauty, crafting pieces that are as thoughtful as they are joyful.

Explore Nikki’s latest collections and follow her creative journey:

Support Nikki by visiting her website, exploring her characterful ceramic pieces, and following along with the joyful rhythm of her studio life on Instagram.