Fort Family: Lolly Lolly Ceramics
/What inspired you to launch Lolly Lolly Ceramics?
I didn’t just decide to launch a brand one day, truthfully. I started making ceramics when I was in my undergrad at CCAD. I studied graphic design so making ceramics was a way to take a break from staring at my computer screen all day. I love working with clay and I also love building a business, so my natural knack for those two things made it easy to decide to take on Lolly Lolly full-time.
All photos: Menges Design
How are your creations different?
Lolly Lolly Ceramic pieces are a fresh take on a centuries-old craft. My pieces are incredibly simple, but they are also intricately complex. I love teetering that line. I believe the ability to do that comes from my design background. I care deeply for the details, the way in which my pieces are constructed and how each individual piece works together as a collective whole.
What’s the biggest challenge to running your business?
The biggest challenge right now is time. My business grew very rapidly in the past 6 months, so I feel like I’m playing catch up everyday. The next big challenge will be growing my team and scaling up production, but I already know how I’m going to do both of those things so they’re more of a “next step” than a challenge.
Why did you choose The Fort for your new studio?
For the past three years, I’ve slowly grown Lolly Lolly in the basement of my home. Moving into The Fort meant a larger space to expand the business and it meant a community of creatives to be surrounded by and inspired by daily.
We loved seeing The Fort’s own Nick Fancher capture photos for your feature in Dwell. It’s the kind of collaboration we hope for here. How can we improve our Fort community in the next year?
I’ve only been to one or two happy hours at The Fort since I’ve been at the space (boo COVID), but I think The Fort has a major opportunity to connect with the city of Columbus through events. A lot of people still don’t know about The Fort and there is so much space and so many creatives who love connecting. I hope that doesn’t become a missed opportunity.
Can we talk about the light in here?
If you could have three bands play your private birthday party, who would it be?
JpegMafia, Megan thee Stallion, and my 2 friends who are DJs: @najinthecut and @NadiaisOK. None of these are bands, but all of these artists represent a very Lolly birthday party mood, which is usually a mix of electro-house/rave, hip hop and disco.
We met you at your show here at The Fort and were blown away by the creativity. Do you think another show will happen when we’re all clear of COVID?
Another show woooould be fun, but I probably wouldn't do one based on the 100 Mugs. I like bringing people together though, so having an open studio would be fun and low pressure. That would be a good opportunity to meet my audience and show work in progress. People reach out every day asking if I offer studio tours.
Thanks, Lalese!
Learn more about Lalese and Lolly Lolly Ceramics: lollylollyceramics.com
