Phoebe Kretschmer’s best life
JamFactory Ceramics Studio Production Manager Phoebe Kretschmer tells SALIFE how she takes joy from gardening, is simply grateful for waking up every day, and how she has learnt to accept and embrace what cannot be changed.
Give us a brief insight into what you do.
My week is typically divided between working in my home studio and my role as studio manager in the ceramics department at JamFactory. I enjoy making both functional and conceptual pieces out of clay using both wheel throwing and hand-building techniques. I have a background in interior architecture and am drawn to the impact of and ways that ceramics can be used within spaces. I am currently in the process of developing a few more architecturally focused pieces, such as a mirror, light and coffee table. My role at JamFactory has offered me the opportunity to develop the Wavy Handle range. I hold a lot of gratitude for all the talented people at Jam who collaborated with me on this project, and who continue to support the process of continual improvement. I’m also feeling inspired to explore the varied ways that all life is interconnected through my work.
What brings you joy in life?
Gardening brings me joy – I love watching the garden change with the seasons, seeing flowers bloom and growing produce. I also find happiness in spending time in nature or at the beach with my husband and our dog, Mala. Quality time with friends and family is important to me, and of course, there’s the joy of getting a good result out of the kiln.
What is the hardest lesson you’ve had to learn?
Acceptance of what is. Life has shown me that, no matter how much you plan, things beyond your control will inevitably arise. So, while it can be a struggle to get there, learning to accept and embrace what I can’t change has been invaluable. It’s a lesson that has helped me let go and move forward.
Phoebe’s favourite photograph is this image of her late grandfather, Ray.What is your most treasured photograph and why?
This is just one of my treasured photographs, a picture of my Grandpa, Ray, who died a few years ago, pictured here as a dapper young man. Ray was a big sweetheart who loved his family dearly.
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What are the top five songs on your playlist?
This changes so often depending on my mood but a solid five would be;
Where You Belong – Little Dragon
Jigsaw Falling Into Place – Radiohead
Undress Me Now – Morcheeba
Self Care – Mac Miller
Nakamarra – Hiatus Kiayote
My life philosophy is …
Be thankful. Waking up and experiencing another day is a gift not everyone gets. Everything is transient, and by being grateful for what you have, you open yourself up to appreciate more in your life, leading to a happier existence.
