The pioneering design studio brings together ceramics, food and art under one roof in the Clifton Hill warehouse district.
Acclaimed Melbourne-based artist and designer, Ryan L Foote, has designed and opened a new concept multi-art space in a reinvented early-1900s boot factory in Clifton Hill. Ryan came to prominence in the art world with his large installations in high-profile venues including the National Gallery of Victoria, Federation Square Melbourne, Gertrude Contemporary Art Spaces, Melbourne’s GPO Building, Flinders Lane Gallery and many more. His new concept space will balance multiple functions: sculpture studio, ceramic workshop, gallery, science lab and event space. Part art and part alchemy has always been the creative process behind product development for Ryan, whose diverse background provides a unique source of technical know-how and creative innovation. He began his career creating large sculptural art installations before becoming involved in set design for events leading to his interest in food design and ceramicware.
“I started my career as an installation artist which merged into food event designer leading to making my own tableware. The new concept studio has become an extension of all my experience. It has always been my aim to make a welcoming and non-exclusive place where people can visit, learn, create and enjoy,” says Ryan.
The new fit-out features custom-designed casting tables, drying shelves, water-wall glazing station and glaze laboratory. The highly considered and contemporary approach synonymous with the studio’s design aesthetic is reflected in the space’s customised design and interior which Ryan designed himself.
Designed to be experiential and immersive – it is a space made to be shared – with courses and classes held on a weekly basis teaching students the craft and science behind slipcasting, glazing and mould-making. Friends or colleagues can also book in a private workshop that is customised to meet the group’s needs.
“We have an upcoming program of workshops and courses covering each stage of making and finishing ceramics, as well as outdoor artisanal events during the warmer months and gallery shows exhibiting ceramic artists from near and far.” We will be partnering with other artisans to create bespoke events and workshops which pair ceramics with a craft or interest, such as chocolate and whisky tastings, ikebana flower arranging classes and life drawing.
The retail space features the extensive ranges of ceramicware in Ryan’s collection, including his Crystalline Range which has taken years of R&D to develop. Each colourway is a mix of at least 10 minerals, measured to perfection to create an environment where crystals bloom on the surface of the porcelain during the firing process. Other ranges include the iconic and always fun Bubble Range and the contemporary Bento Sets in pastel tones. These ranges include pieces such as vases, platters and cups; all handmade in porcelain. The retail space also offers luxury 3D-printed chocolates from Ryan’s Hong Kong-based brand Chocolates by Ryan L Foote.
