Star Maker: Ruth Wilde

Micaela Sharp meets ceramicist Ruth Wilde, whose colourful creations pull at the heartstrings

Ruth Wilde describes her work as ‘ceramics for sensitive souls’. Based in a studio in Sheffield, her pieces are playful, romantic and nostalgic, using colour, pattern and text to resonate with those who use them.

When did you realise you were a creative soul?

I always knew that I didn’t want a conventional job and wanted to make my own path. Art always felt like the place for me in school and I followed this instinct by studying fine art at university. It took me a long time to figure out how to use my creativity for a living and I feel so lucky that I can now use my creative urge to make things everyday.

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

Because I make each piece by hand, I rarely repeat designs meaning most of my pieces are one-offs. The words and phrases I write on my ceramics are also so personal and are collected from my own thoughts or things I’ve read and heard. When my innermost thoughts connect with people across the world it’s the best feeling and that’s what makes my work feel so special.

What part of the process of making your items do you enjoy the most?

I really love the decorative aspect of painting, drawing and writing on my plates. This is where the design and words come together and is what makes each piece individual.

What’s the best feedback you’ve received?

There have been so many lovely messages I’ve received from people all over the world. Because my words are so personal and intimate in their nature, people have opened up to me about their break-ups, illness and struggles, and my work in some way makes them feel seen and unburdened life. Somebody once said they love my brain which I guess is where the thoughts and words come from!

Why is sustainability so important to you in your work?

As a hand builder of ceramics, I work slowly and only make things that are worthy of being in this world. I’m very efficient as a maker and hate waste, so I always recycle clay and use up every material I buy and put it back into the work. My pieces are made of stoneware and are timeless and made to last, so I like to think that the lifeline of my work will last for generations.

When looking at your journey so far, what would you do differently?

I think I would pause for my successes more and celebrate my achievements. Working alone for most of the day and starting up your own business, it can be difficult to be your own cheerleader all the time when you are the brand and being objective is difficult. Seeing how far I’ve come, I can now be more focused on my ideas and think even bigger for the future, as well as having confidence and conviction in my work.

What’s next for your brand?

I have big plans for 2025. I’ve recently moved into a new studio which has allowed me to be more focused on my work. I would like to make more exclusive larger pieces. In addition to this, I’d like to expand my range of products and move more into the interior design space.

Visit Ruth’s stall at Endless Love Creative Spring Makers Market at The Workstation in Sheffield, on 8 February.