Recreation Center

Heilpern’s designs are playful, creative and a true joy! The collection consists of cups, bowls, jugs, plates and vases, all made in her very studio. Each object is individually designed and quickly becomes a personal favorite in any kitchen.

Sara: How did you start working with clay?

Josephine: In 2009 I worked and lived on a farm in Upstate New York. It was run by a woman who I had gone to school with. She had an interest in ceramics and made some really weird and mindblowing stuff. So on our time off she taught me how to work with clay. I loved being able to make items to eat the food we grew off of. After the farm I took some classes and became a member of a communal ceramic studio. I've always been interested in functional objects and craft processes. And coming from an art background this is always something I struggled with conceptually. When I started making bowls and mugs and I brought them home and was able to use them it blew my mind and I felt so satisfied with the entire process.

Sara: How are your patterns created?

Josephine: I am a child of the Internet! I constantly look for inspiring imagery. Most of the patterns have an older design history, starting in the BAUHAUS movement through to Studio Alchimia and the Memphis Group.

Sara: What inspires you?

Josephine: Difficult question! As I said, the internet offers me a lot of pictures that inspire me. I love modern fashion and design. I also get a lot of inspiration from young creatives who do things similar to me.

Sara: What materials do you use and what exactly does the production process look like?

Josephine: Clay is, of course, my main material - but I also like to mix it with other things such as rubber. For a long time I did everything myself but recently also got help in the studio, which supports me when I can’t go any further.

Sara: What do you love about making ceramics?

Josephine: I really love the versatility of the material, clay is unbelievable!. It comes from the earth and can be molded into whatever shape you want. Then it goes into an incredibly hot oven and completely transforms. Its like magic. So many processes and materials that I have experimented with have a visible transformation.

Sara: What are you working on currently?

Josephine: I have some a couple coffee shop collaborations but mostly I'm just trying to make it through Christmas alive.

Text/ Interview: Sara Umbreit
Photos: Recreation Center