Sara Flynn
How did you become interested in your career? |
I did a foundation course in Cork in 1988 with the intention of going on to study Painting. One of the materials we were able to experiment on the course was Clay - I loved it immediately and my direction changed. I studied Ceramics in the Crawford College of Art & Design in Cork from 1989 - 1992 (Diploma), and then for my Degree (1997 - 1998). Following my Degree I had utter focus and intention to make a career through working with clay. (In between my Diploma and Degree I lived in London and worked in Harrods Department store (1994 - 1997) where I completed a Business Management Course.) |
What has your career looked like so far? |
There have been some key junctions in my career.
- Origin Craft Fair (London) and Ceramic Art London (Self-funded - Each year for 3 connective years) - In 2006 The Crafts Council of Ireland established ‘Portfolio’, a critical selection of makers, which set a bar to aim for in the hope of being accepted. Once accepted, makers could be considered for participation in the following… - 'SOFA’ (Sculptural Objects and Functional Art), Chicago, U.S.A. & ‘COLLECT’, London, U.K. - I was chosen to participate in both events for 2 consecutive years each. These events proved pivotal to my career. 4. in 2010 at ‘Collect’ London, my work was seen by a wonderful London Gallery who now represent me today and with whom I have a crucially supportive relationship. (Erskine Hall & Coe). I have a solo exhibition with them every 2- 3 years. My work continues to develop. |
Day in the Life: Describe your typical working day. |
When I am in the middle of a making-period I begin in the studio at 9am and finish at 5pm. I postpone any admin and e-mail work for when I am home in the evenings; and usually turn my brain off by 7:30pm. My working-day changes depending on the cycle of making each day & week. It can be a day of single-focus activity (altering & refining) or multiple-activity (throwing, glazing, starting and finishing) which tends to be the case the majority of the time. I am dictated by the clay most of the time - when the material is ready I need to work with it, rather than the other way around. |
If you could give your younger self a piece of advice what would it be? |
I’ve taken the liberty to answer this twice…two pieces of advice - both really important. 1.Pay a professional photographer for good photography from the start. It is not a question about whether or not you can afford it - it is a statement that you can’t afford NOT to do it.2.Recognise* when you are given good advice and, even when it stings - take it. (*This is the real challenge. Advice from experienced, trusted people rather than everything everyone throws at you!). |
Design & Crafts Council of Ireland