Artist Claire Ritchie Talks Influences, Gardening and Studio Essentials

If you happen to have come across Claire Ritchie’s joyful, feel-good illustrations, then it will come as no surprise to learn that this creator of the most delightful stationery, textiles and artwork operates out of a light-filled studio in sunny Brisbane. Here, she gives us a glimpse into her creative process and tells us how she came to collaborate with Robert Gordon…

Robert Gordon x Claire Ritchie product images JARROD BARNES Styling HANNAH GORDON, BTS with Claire DIJANA RISTESKA

How did you come to be an artist?

I have always been curious about how things are made and found myself always making or sewing things as a teen. I studied clothing production and textile and fashion design out of school, which led me to explore pattern design and now more painting. So, I would say curiosity and dedication has led me to be an artist. 

Tell us about your creative process… 

I always start with lots of drawings. I can also spend days dreaming up shapes and colours in my head. I find it helpful to spend time in my garden while I do this. My garden is an extension of my studio. Once I have solid drawings I use the computer to further explore shapes and colours and then transfer these final artworks to whichever surface I might be using.

Where do you find inspiration and what motivates you to create?

I am inspired by the world around me, whether that is people, nature or my own thoughts and feelings. I would say that my motivation is the pure love and joy that I feel when I create. It really feels like I am meditating as it calms my whole body and I feel at peace. 

Is there something you can’t live without in your studio? 

Probably a hot drink! Tea or coffee to keep me going. I also have a snack stash which I need as I forget to break for lunch sometimes! 

Why do you think art is important to society and what could society do to better support artists? 

Art has the capacity to connect us to ourselves and each other on a deeper level.  I can be vulnerable through my art in a way that feels more natural than if I was to talk directly to someone’s face. If we celebrated artists in the way we celebrate academics and sports people, especially at a primary school level, I think a lot more people would feel seen and understood. How great would it be if we had art every day in school! 

I think a particular piece of artwork that you have in your home or space can also be a marker to that time in your life. So for me, I can look at an artwork and it reminds me of where I was in my life and the memories that are connected to that time. 

This is your second time working with Robert Gordon, can you tell us about your initial collection in 2023 and how these collaborations came about?

Robert Gordon approached me about collaborating as they were wanting to inject some joy into a collection. I could not be happier that they reached out, as I think it’s a great example of collaboration where both parties show full respect for what they each have to offer. They supported my finite attention to detail when it came to colour selection, and I trusted their choice of shapes and base colours when choosing what piece would work best for their audience. It makes it not seem like work when you have that respect and understanding in each other’s skill and experience. 

How do you find working with ceramics as a medium?

I love how my artwork has translated onto the Robert Gordon shapes and textures. They have clean lines and minimalist styles that really make the colours and shapes pop!

Tell us about the inspiration behind this fun and colourful new range… 

The four mugs are just meant to be absolutely joyful and uplifting. The designs used are some of my classic patterns and colours. We wanted familiar shapes with the same vibrant colour palette I like to use. What better way to start your day with a cup that can make you feel pure happiness!

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

I would say that I am not directly influenced by someone’s actual work as such, but how they work. I have always admired Bjork’s process. She has a curiosity and evolution of her practice that has seen her create some really interesting and unique music. I love that she is just who she is through her music. That resonates with me. 

What’s your favourite work of art (not your own)?

My current favorite piece of art is by Ngarabul and Torres Strait Islander Artist Lauren Rogers – it’s hanging in my studio! It’s one of her banksia beauties. She lives locally to me, so it’s extra special and connects me to this time of my life living on Turrbal land with my beautiful family.