For almost six years, Niki Marie Groulx has been posting pictures of her handmade ceramics on Instagram in addition to pictures of her adorable dog, Fira. Creating both functional and decorative pieces that are all originally designed, Groulx has become an expert at working with stoneware and porcelain. Her pieces have been sold at potters’ markets all over Ontario, Canada, as well as at the Art Gallery of Ontario.
“I got into ceramics in 2010 when I took a basic pottery class for the first time. I had felt burnt out in my career in real estate at the time and wanted a creative outlet to explore,” Groulx told Setting Mind. “I knew I was hooked instantly, even though at the time I felt the process was difficult and the forms I had in my head didn’t translate into the finished product I had envisioned for a while.”
“It took a good 3 years before I was able to feel confident selling my work. I still look back at some of my old work and cringe a bit, but that is part of the process of evolving. I eventually set up a studio in my basement and purchased a wheel and kiln.”
“Ceramics can be a long and frustrating process at times,’ admitted Groulx. “Each piece is formed either by hand, on the wheel or in a handmade mold. It is then dried slowly and fired in the kiln once, decorated and glazed, and then fired again to roughly 2200 degrees Fahrenheit.”
“I try not to get too attached to a specific piece as there is a percentage of work that doesn’t make it through this process. It’s a surprise every time the kiln is opened, some good, some bad.”
Recently, she rebranded and launched her online store called Token Home Goods. “Why the name ‘Token’? A token of appreciation is a small act of kindness that shows gratitude, the word ‘token’ represents an object or visible representation of this act. I am so grateful for all of you who have supported me over the years and I hope you continue to follow along,” said Groulx.
Groulx also wanted to offer her unique ceramics alongside other local products on the online store. With the goal of quality over quantity, she has thoughtfully sought out and partnered with fellow small businesses in Ontario to sell linen tea towels, candles, cotton baskets, and more.
“Being inspired to create is probably the best part. A spark that seems to come out of nowhere and then a strong urge to put the idea into play,” added Groulx. “If the timing isn’t great I usually write my ideas down or draw them out in a little notebook for later reference. The sources of my inspiration come from many avenues: Nature, architecture, landscapes, travel, textures, contrasts, photography, colour palettes. Sometimes looking to other artists in different mediums can be super inspiring as well. Inspiration is what keeps things excited and creates the drive to make new things.”
