How RIKA ROUW DESIGNS Began

Clay musings

When I found myself on an isolated bush property in the early '70s" with three young children I turned to work with clay as a means to keep sane and keep the kids occupied.  I started out creating garden sculptures. Rustic gnomes inspired by the bush which gradually morphed into 'Australiana' style sculptures, Swagmen, Pioneer Cottages, Outback Pubs and "Dunnies",  sold in galleries and gift shops all over Australia.  Then came a period of 'Lounge Ladies', sculptures of funny housewives and well-rounded ladies snoozing on colourful sofas surrounded by cats, chocolates and other indulgences. Jewellery and paintings followed, along with Community Arts Projects within the South West and the Kimberleys in the North West of Western Australia.​

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My art has always been a direct response to my environment and as an older person with many years of experience in the creating of art: ceramics, mixed media and textiles and storytelling I'm now actively looking for new opportunities to pursue my interest in working with diverse communities on projects of historical and personal value.  

I believe in the power of "storytelling"  to foster connections between people. This is especially important in today's health and environmental situation to reduce isolation and in response to the vast distances between communities in Australia, and periodical restrictions on travel.​  Art unites where geographical distance isolates.  

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