I & l

Hello beautiful human, 

my name is Rhiane (but most people call me Rhi). I am the creator of Connect. Originally from London, I’ve spent the last 9 years in the Netherlands, where Amsterdam stole my heart - and introduced me to ceramics. My journey with clay began during the early days of COVID. Fresh out of university, I found myself navigating frozen recruitment processes and working long, grueling hours in a factory just to pay the rent. It was tough - both physically and mentally - but then, by pure chance, a friend connected me with @kariceramics. I started as an assistant, packing orders, with no real experience. It wasn’t glamorous, but I was so grateful for the change.

Little did I know, that small step would turn into something so much bigger. Over time, I asked to take on more responsibilities, eventually becoming the studio manager. I learned everything - from logistics to the intricate details of the ceramics process - from my incredible mentor, Kari. For four years, I grew, learned, and fell in love with ceramics. The designs I’m creating now are the dreams I had all those years ago.

Last summer, I made the difficult decision to leave my job, my city, and my home to travel and rediscover myself. I wasn’t even sure if ceramics was my path anymore. But during my year of living nomadically, the idea of Connect kept coming up. I realised how much I missed creating, and my heart was telling me to fully pursue this dream.

I’ve made many sacrifices along the way - leaving behind stability, comfort, and familiarity - but I’m determined to make this dream a reality. Now, I’m focused on becoming a full-time ceramic artist and pouring my heart into Connect. My first collection, 42 pieces strong, was born out of blood, sweat, and tears, and it represents my deepest values of connection and creation.

Right now, I’m temporarily back in the UK, where I’m setting up a studio space to ensure I’ll always have a place to create. It’s been a journey of uncertainty and risk, but I know it’s the right path.

Being connected to life, myself, and the people around me is what truly matters to me, and ceramics heavily connects me to this. Outside of the studio, what keeps me grounded is moving my body, cacao, deep chats, and meditation. Oh, and I’m addicted to sweet potatoes! I’m also a twin, a lover of nature, all things creative, and anything that nourishes the soul.

Connect has been in the making for many years, changing and evolving as I do. I’ve found it really hard to follow this dream, due to fear in all its shapes and forms. 

This is just the beginning. Join me on this journey as I share the highs, lows, and everything in between. 

Love,

Rhi