For ceramist Alexia Klompje, clay is a mode of expression through which she shares her narrative. "Inspired by my life, experiences and things around me, each Klomp Ceramics piece is a part of my story," she says.
Beginning just five years ago with a few bags of clay in the spare bedroom of her Cape Town apartment, her company has both grown itself and helped her through her own healing process."'I was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2012. After it was removed, I was unable to move the right side of my body," says Alexia. "The recovery was slow and I needed something creative to do while I healed. Playing with clay allowed me to express myself, tell my story and heal."Klomp Ceramics has evolved and Alexia's collections, which over the years have been clad in everything from bold geometrics to soft marbled techniques, have found markets locally and abroad.
"Coming from both an architectural and fashion styling background, I like to play with texture, structure, folding, draping, geometry, pattern and colour as a means of expression," she says.
"I hope to inspire others through my story while creating beautiful contemporary ceramic pieces for everyday use."QUICK Q&A WITH KLOMPJE
What are you listening to?
I'm listening to a lot of classical music, which counteracts the unhealthy dose of kiddy songs I'm subjected to daily.
A book you can't get enough of?
In my angst-filled 20s, I read and re-read Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist. I often think back to it and remind myself of the lessons in there, especially the realisation that what we're looking for is always with us at all times.Your most cherished decor piece?
An illustration of Paris drawn by my husband when he was a child. It won an Yves Saint Laurent competition and was turned into an official YSL poster. It's the only possession I'd save in a fire.
Designers who inspire you?
My favourite designers at the moment are the cool local duo of girls at Bofred.I love their understated luxe pieces and their unique style.
Your top travel destination?
My top travel destination is Brazil. I backpacked there in my 20s, ran out of money and lived in a favela in Rio for a while with a group of wild travelling South Americans, making and selling jewellery on the beaches. I fell in love with that vibrant, energetic, magical country.
Your go-to Instagram account?
An Instagram account everyone should follow is Humans of New York. It keeps it beautifully real.
Your fave decor style?
A decor style I can't get enough of is minimalist. It's who I am...