An Interview with Artist & Ceramicist Lisa Hu
Whim’s Editor recently chatted to artist and ceramicist Lisa Hu, who resides on the sunny Gold Coast of Queensland, Australia. Learn how she got started in ceramics, as well as her multi-disciplinary approach to creativity.
Thank you for joining us, Lisa! For those of our readers who aren’t familiar with your work, how would you describe it to them?
Thanks for having me! I'd describe my work as traditional from a contemporary lens, constantly evolving and deeply inspired by nature. Flora and fauna are the central theme to everything, and I'd describe my aesthetic as feminine, organic, and playful.
I was instantly drawn to your unique ceramics on Instagram, which allowed me to discover your stunning work. How did you get started with this medium and what does your typical design/creation process look like for your ceramic pieces?
I started in ceramics through my mum, who used to take pottery classes! I've always loved getting my hands dirty and making a big ol' mess, not thinking too much and just getting into the "flow state". Ceramics became that for me, and I loved the idea of making something that was entirely mine and that would last forever.
I get really inspired by fashion, antiques, and anything floral, so I keep a sketchbook for all my ideas. Then I try to make those little sketches into something, and occasionally they become a big something! I'm not an overthinker, so if I've got an interesting idea, I'll work like crazy to make it happen, and then move on!
You really are the “Jill of all trades”—from your beautiful artworks to unique handmade ceramics, and even textile design. Do you have a favourite medium you prefer to concentrate on, or do you find all of the work you do is an extension of one another?
I think Jill of all trades is a great way to describe me! I hate the idea of "niching down" or limiting myself to one style and one medium. I like to think my creativity can carry through many mediums - even dance, film, music. Art is all around us! I love that it can all still be recognizable as mine and have my voice in it.
They're definitely all an extension of one another. I go through phases (and I'm sure I'll continue to until I die!) of what medium I prefer. At the moment I'm probably back to my first love, watercolour.
I always love hearing about the typical day in the life of a creative. What does a workday usually look like for you?
You might not love hearing about my typical creative day, I'm a bit chaotic! Every day is different depending on what kind of project I'm working on, but you'll normally find me at my home studio desk painting away with a cup of tea and an audiobook on.
I always start the day with a to-do list to keep me on track, but often find myself adding lots of random little ideas and personal projects. Chaotic! And I try to squeeze in a bit of admin time, but I'm terrible at it.
You’ve been involved in some amazing projects and collaborations over the years. Which experience(s) stands out the most to you and why?
I'm so grateful for every single collaboration, it's hard to pick a favourite! I guess one that stands out for me is the prints I did for our local art gallery, HOTA. I did some paintings of iconic Gold Coast places, like Burleigh Pavillion and the Pink Poodle Motel sign. Those make me so happy, because I grew up here and I'm really proud of what the city is growing into!
Do you have any exciting, upcoming projects on the horizon that you’d like to share with us?
Yes! I'm doing a mural for Arts in the Alley in Surfers Paradise on July 24-26. It's a community mural, so if you're around you can come hang out and paint with me!
Finally, where can readers see more of your incredible work?
You can find me on Insta @llisa.hu or on my website at llisahu.com.
We want to thank Lisa for taking the time to answer our questions and hope you have enjoyed learning more about this talented “Jill of all trades”!