Meet the Experience Provider – Sarah Schiewe
In this month’s Meet the Experience Provider, we had the pleasure of chatting with Sarah Schiewe, the talented ceramic artist behind Schiewe Ceramics. Sarah shared her journey as an artist and the inspirations that shape her stunning pieces. We also got an inside look at her Bespoke Fine Art Ceramic Sculpture Experience, a unique offering through Uniquely Local that invites you to co-create a custom art piece with Sarah herself. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind opportunity to turn your personal story and memories into a work of art!
What inspired you to become a ceramic artist, and how did your journey into ceramics begin?
Inspired by ceramic artist Grayson Perry, my passion for ceramics began during my degree. I was unaware I was suffering from anxiety and low self-worth. This manifested as lack of voice and using perfectionism as a measure of control. I subconsciously poured my thoughts and feelings into the clay instead. It wasn’t until 10 years later that I gained an awareness of my anxiety issues, and through life coaching I gained the confidence to take a risk and become a ceramic artist.
Can you tell us about your creative process—how do you come up with the ideas for your ceramic sculptures?
My creative process begins with truly listening to people and understanding the unique aspects of their memories, stories, and aspirations. I find inspiration in the emotional depth of their journeys, which guide the concepts for each piece. I then explore these ideas visually, sketching with ink or experimenting digitally, allowing my thoughts to flow freely. Often, it’s my subconscious that brings everything together, revealing the final vision for the sculpture. Each piece is a reflection of the personal stories that shape it, making the process as intuitive as it is intentional.
Are there any artists or movements that have influenced your work over the years?
Grayson Perry has been a major influence on my work. His ability to tell stories through hand-drawn elements on 3D objects, combined with printed decals, really inspired me. I admire how he creates beauty in a way that feels raw and imperfect, yet deeply intentional. His approach to blending different techniques, much like collage, resonates with me and has shaped how I create my own ceramics. Plus, I once had the chance to have afternoon tea with him—but that’s a story for another time!
How has living in York and Yorkshire influenced your art and style?
York is a lovely please to live, and by sharing our stories we build an inclusive community with understanding for one another. Much of my work is shaped by the people and stories I encounter here, as these are the lives that surround me. I draw inspiration from local businesses and individuals, bringing their narratives to life through my sculptures. Whether it’s Sir Owlfred the Golden Hooting Owl, Jacky the Jackdaw from Pool Bridge Swimming Lakes, or my Smôl Vikings, each character is rooted in the real people who make York such a vibrant place to live.
What does a typical day in your studio look like?
I definitely don’t have a typical day, the only thing consistent is the dog walks!! I will normally be working towards a particular project which could be York Potters Fair, Open Studios, Harrogate Art Fair or a workshop. A great day for me is when I have the time to take a piece of clay and start a big build on a new idea. I will make a basic shape, let it dry out (go on dog walk), then start building up the detail. Before you know it, seven hours have passed, and I get to call it work!
What are some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of working with ceramics?
One of the most challenging aspects of working with ceramics is the unpredictability of the final firing. After investing so much time and care into a piece, it can be disheartening to open the kiln and find that something has gone wrong—whether it’s a crack, a glaze that’s run, or unexpected colour changes, often without knowing why. There’s also no way to recover the time or cost when things go awry. But when everything goes right, the results can be truly spectacular. The most rewarding moment is revealing the finished piece to the client and witnessing their emotional connection to something that was made just for them. Being part of that experience is incredibly fulfilling.
Do you have a favourite piece you’ve created? Can you tell us the story behind it?
The most important piece for me so far has been Sad Panda. She was a winning piece created for a Grayson Perry competition, inspired by the Victorian Birth, Life and Death exhibition in York Castle Museum. At the time of the competition, I had miscarried my baby, and subconsciously I poured my grief and anger into the work. During my personal development with my life coach, the penny dropped, and I understood how I had used the clay to express my feelings that I couldn’t vocalise. This new understanding is what I needed to be able to take the risk and start my new ceramics business.
How do you see your work evolving in the future? Any particular projects or ideas you’re excited to explore?
I’m currently preparing for an exhibition at the Harrogate Art Fair, where I’ll be celebrating Yorkshire businesses through my art. The focus will be on the people behind these businesses, their inspirations, and the unique stories you only discover by being a part of their world. After that, I’m looking forward to York Open Studios in April, where I hope to create an Easter Egg trail—something interactive and fun for the community. As I move forward, I see my work continuing to explore deeper connections between local stories and art, blending creativity with community engagement in new and exciting ways.
Discover more about Sarah’s Bespoke Fine Art Ceramic Sculpture Experience on Uniquely Local:
How do you guide participants through translating their memories into a unique piece of art?
I guide participants by creating a relaxed, open environment where they can reflect on their most cherished memories. It starts with a friendly conversation, where we reminisce and explore the moments that bring them the most happiness. Every person connects to their memories differently—some arrive with a clear vision or shape in mind, while others let the ideas unfold naturally as we talk. The process is as much about connection as it is about creation. We chat, share stories, drink tea, and even enjoy some cake, allowing the inspiration for their unique piece of art to emerge from this personal exchange.
What kinds of questions or prompts do you use during the consultation to uncover the most meaningful elements of someone’s story?
During the consultation, I start by asking participants to bring an object of their choice that holds personal significance. This serves as a conversation starter and gives me valuable insight into their story and the emotions tied to that object. From there, we explore various aspects of their lives, such as family, pets, memorable holidays, meaningful places, aspirations, and pivotal events. This journey allows me to gauge their feelings and memories, helping me intuitively identify the most impactful themes to develop into their bespoke piece of art.
Could you walk us through the process of turning initial ideas from the consultation into a finished ceramic sculpture?
After the consultation, I identify 3 to 6 key themes that stand out. I then immerse myself in researching these areas to gather inspiration. For instance, if a client has connections to Cambodia, I’ll explore its culture, art, history, and landscape to enrich my understanding.
Next, I recognise the importance of giving my mind space to process all the information. Often, the best ideas emerge unexpectedly—sometimes at 4 a.m. or while I’m in the shower. When inspiration strikes, I sketch a final design that resonates with me and feels aligned with the client’s story. This drawing serves as a visual guide for building the sculpture. While I may need to make practical adjustments during the construction process, I strive to remain as true to the original concept as possible, ensuring that the finished piece authentically represents the unique narrative we’ve developed together.
How do you ensure the final sculpture captures the client’s personality and life story in a meaningful way?
The consultation is crucial for accurately capturing the client’s story and essence. I would never begin the sculpting process unless I’m completely confident in the idea. If there’s any uncertainty, I always schedule a second consultation to delve deeper into specific areas. Ultimately, the client knows their own life best, and by actively listening to their insights and experiences, I can create a sculpture that truly reflects their personality and narrative in a meaningful way. This collaborative approach is what makes the final piece resonate on a personal level.
How do you balance your creative vision with ensuring that the sculpture reflects the client’s own experiences and ideas?
I find a beautiful balance between my creative vision and the client’s experiences, which is what sets my work apart. Clients are drawn to me for my distinctive style, yet I embrace their input wholeheartedly during the consultation process. They’re encouraged to share specific ideas or constraints—whether it’s the inclusion of a beloved dog, a particular colour palette, or ensuring the sculpture fits a designated space. This collaborative dialogue allows me to infuse my artistic sensibility into the piece while honouring their unique story, creating a sculpture that is both a personal reflection and a manifestation of my creative flair.
Have you ever encountered a particularly challenging story or memory to represent artistically?
One of the most challenging stories I’ve had the privilege to represent artistically is that of the Coppergate Viking Woman, whose remains are housed in the Jorvik Viking Centre. She was a disabled Viking, and I aimed to convey her narrative through the lens of community and love. The challenge lay in the fact that this poignant story had to be integrated with a 6-foot Tansy Beetle, which presented a unique juxtaposition. Merging these two themes—an intimate human experience with a large, unconventional form—was a creative puzzle that required thoughtful consideration and innovative design to bring both elements together harmoniously in ceramic form.
How do you feel when you see clients’ reactions to their finished bespoke sculpture? What do you hope clients take away from the experience beyond the physical sculpture itself?
When I reveal the finished sculpture, it’s often an incredibly emotional moment for both the client and myself. We usually find ourselves shedding tears because the experience is so overwhelming and profound. This is exactly why I create bespoke sculptures — they are more than just art pieces; they become a tangible embodiment of the client’s most cherished memories, feelings, and happiness. My hope is that every time they look at it, they’re transported back to those moments, reliving the joy and connection it represents. It’s a lasting reminder of something deeply personal, far beyond the physical sculpture itself
Could you share an example of a particularly memorable sculpture that came from a deeply personal or unique story?
When I decided to become a ceramic artist I started with a piece now known as the “Dragon Vase,” which tells the story of my family’s struggle with my father’s battle with dementia. The dragon, coiling around the vase, symbolizes his transformation—once strong and vibrant, now fiercely guarding the fragments of his identity as he loses his memories, freedom, and sense of self. This piece captures the painful yet poignant shift in his life, reflecting the fragility of human existence and the heartbreaking fight to hold onto what is slipping away.
What is the significance of delivering the sculpture in person, and how does that final moment of unveiling impact the overall experience?
Delivering the sculpture in person is profoundly significant for me; it feels akin to handing over a newborn baby. After investing so much time and energy into the piece, I want to ensure it is safely received, and witnessing that moment of unveiling makes the experience even more meaningful. Being present allows me to share in the emotional connection between the client and the work. It’s a special opportunity for clients to discover the subtle design elements that may not be immediately apparent but hold deep personal significance for them. This final moment becomes a heartfelt debrief, enriching the overall experience and solidifying the bond between the art and its story.
What is the most common feedback you hear from people after they’ve taken part in your ceramic experience?
The most common feedback I receive is a heartfelt “Wow!” Many participants are genuinely surprised by the deep emotional connection they develop with the sculpture. While they may appreciate art in general, the experience of having a unique piece that reflects their own story is profoundly moving. It resonates with them in a way they hadn’t anticipated, transforming their perception of art into something deeply personal and meaningful. They often express gratitude for how the piece captures their essence, making the experience unforgettable.
How has working on bespoke projects like this changed your approach to ceramics?
Working on bespoke projects has profoundly transformed my approach to ceramics. It has encouraged me to embrace my imagination fully and to create without being limited by doubts or “what if” scenarios. This newfound freedom allows me to explore unconventional ideas that may have once seemed too outlandish. Through my sculptures, I aim to challenge the throwaway culture that surrounds us, crafting pieces meant to last for centuries rather than just weeks. This commitment to longevity and meaning infuses my work with purpose, making each piece not only a reflection of individual stories but also a lasting testament to the value of artistry in a disposable world.
Do you find that these personalised sculptures help clients explore their own identity in ways they hadn’t expected?
Absolutely, personalised sculptures often help clients explore their identity in ways they never anticipated. Many people come to me feeling uncertain about themselves, saying things like, “There’s nothing interesting about me.” Yet, these individuals frequently end up with the most captivating pieces. When they see an object that reflects how someone else perceives them, it can be a transformative experience. This perspective not only boosts their confidence but also empowers them to engage in positive conversations about themselves and how the art celebrates their unique identity. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness this journey of self-discovery through my work.
With huge thanks to Sarah for sharing her story with us. You kind find out more about her Bespoke Fine Art Ceramic Sculpture Experience and buy the experience as a gift for someone special or for yourself.
