We speak to Tenterfield’s Ceramic Artisan – Kylie of Peakvue Studio
Being creative and artistic from a young age has fuelled a lifelong love of art, craft, printmaking and sewing – to name a few of the artistic passions Kylie has mastered throughout her life.
Today she has combined her love of learning and developing new skills and techniques in her latest passion – ceramics. If you are planning on visiting Tenterfield then a visit to Kylie and Peakvue Studio is an absolute must. Not only because her beautiful country surroundings are reflected in her unique work – she is literally just around the corner from Mirumiru Bubbletent.
Here she shares with us a little bit more about herself and her small batch ceramics she creates from start to finish at Peakvue Studio.
How did you build such a creative career?
I originally completed a degree in Film and Media, became a teacher for nearly two decades and then combined my early love of art and creativity with a move to the country. My late Mum was my absolute biggest fan and she encouraged me to be my creative best. Everything I do to continue my love of art whether it’s painting, drawing, assemblage art, mixed media collage, print making, sewing and now ceramics is underpinned by her belief in me. It’s kept my love of learning alive!
Do you have any tips about being creative?
Sure do – I have three things I focus on. Recognise the passion within yourself and allow it to come out, whatever it looks like. Secondly, carve out the headspace you need to be creative. It’s important not to fill every waking moment with scheduled commitments as you need the time, space, and energy to let those ideas flow. I find listening to music, meditating, getting out with our beautiful Speckle Park cows on the farm with a tea and a sketchbook keeps the creativity flowing. And show up every day. Do something. Although is great to produce items you are happy with, it’s the process and the practice that are the most important things to keep your work going forward.
What makes you you?
Well like lots of people I find the world a stressful place at times, and it does impact my psyche. Acknowledging those times, I feel anxious and sitting with those feelings is important to me. Accepting the concept of ‘being enough’ is the best possible outcome for me. And that goes for my work too. I do feel like my personality is reflected in each piece I produce. I like to think of it as perfectly imperfect – and unique.
Tell us more about the Peakvue range
Moving to Tenterfield and the high country has given me a bird’s eye view of a traditional country lifestyle. And you can see that in my work. It’s a bit rustic, a bit country with lots of elements of nature included. I’m known for including leaves, feathers, images of birds and animals and calming neutral colours in my pieces. I focus on small batches of functional and decorative ceramic wares and make everything by hand. So, whether you are buying a vase, candle, piece of jewellery or a button, tableware or my garden and Christmas ornaments, it’s all made by me here in Tenterfield one piece at a time. Even when I collaborate with my husband, Grant (also a woodworking craftsman) our timber and metal homeware pieces are all unique.
Where can we find Peakvue Studio?
You can buy any of my pieces and order custom designs from my studio on Mount Mackenzie Road. Peakvue Studio is open to the public Thursday to Saturday 10am to 3pm or by appointment. You can also find me at the attend the local Farmers’ & Producers’ Market held every 3rd Saturday of the month at the Presbyterian Church Hall, Cnr Manners and Logan Streets in Tenterfield Village.
What’s next for Peakvue Studio?
We’ll be launching ceramic workshops in 2023 and you won’t need to be experienced to come along and make your own unique ceramic piece. Think trinket dishes, small trays, cups and vases. Everyone can hand build something, have it fired and collect a few weeks later to take home!
How do people reach you?
People can visit my online store and stay up to date with our products at www.peakvuestudio.com; or www.instagram.com/peakvue_studio or search Peakvue Studio on Facebook