WHY WE LOVE... ELEANOR TORBATI
A selection of Eleanor Torbati’s ceramics are stocked in our Garnet Stores and Supplies.
And we’re happy to announce our shelves will be restocked with their handcrafted Christmas decorations in time for the holidays.
TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF?
My name is Eleanor Torbati, I am 26 and am based in Norwich, Norfolk. I am a full time potter and registered nurse. The philosophy of my ceramics focus on slow living in everyday life, the intention to stop, breathe, reflect, and enjoy the use of the ceramic process and outcome, which in comparison to my nursing career is quite the opposite. I’ve been throwing for 6 years and running ceramics full time for the last 2 years.
WHAT MADE YOU SET UP YOUR OWN BUSINESS?
There are lots of reasons why I started my own business, but most importantly it was to focus on something I could watch grow from the very start, investing time and energy into something I’m passionate about and share this passion with so many others that also enjoy the process or enjoyments ceramics bring. At the time I made the switch over, nursing in the pandemic was incredibly stressful, and I often used pottery as a form of time out in between shifts on the frontline. Many comment on its therapeutic ability to bring focus and calm to a space and I‘m incredibly lucky to practice this process everyday. My online platform has been a great success in the set up of the shop so if you haven’t had the chance, have a browse over at www.eleanortorbaticermics.co.uk or on the social @eleanortorbaticeramics.
WHO IS PART OF YOUR TEAM?
Eleanor Torbati ceramics is a one woman band! From clay prep and throwing to glazing, photographing and dispatch. I share a beautiful studio space with my potting friend Nathalie (by.noo) and co-owner of our joint pottery studio Reclaym Studio, now offering a range of pottery classes, from hand building to 1:1 wheel tuition, if you interested check us out! http://reclaymstudio.co.uk
WHERE DO YOU SOURCE YOUR MATERIALS?
Where I can, I try and source local, Helen over at Anglian clay supplies is based in Alby, Norfolk. They sell a range of glazes, underglazes, raw materials, tools etc. and keep in stock a comprehensive range of clays suitable for all types of ceramics techniques. Inspiration however is sourced locally in abundance. My work is inspired by the tones of the north Norfolk landscape, drawing on organic and natural colour palettes, such as off white, earthy beiges and browns.
HAS THE RECENT PANDEMIC AFFECTED YOU AND WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?
Yes like many, I had lots plans come to a stop. I took some time out of nursing to build my independent business and really focus on my small batch ceramics. I will be returning to the NHS in the fall alongside my pottery. In the meantime I’m busy working on a large collection of wholesale orders for some incredible independent stores, even one destined for Brooklyn, New York. Plans are to continue slinging clay for as long as I can and keep involved in the social scene, local markets and maybe even some collaborations. With the studio opening to the public it’s going to be wonderful to share my enthusiasm for making pots with so many others. We are planning lots of lovely open days too so Norwich can come visit us and see how they can get involved.
WHAT'S THE BEST THING ABOUT THE AREA YOU LIVE IN?
The creative community for sure. So many creative individuals live in such a vibrant city I call home. Many share their spaces and stories, so its a wonderful place to network and work together. I work part time in a wonderful shop down the lanes and am surrounded by jewellers, seamstresses, magazine designers… I’m never short of creative advice!