Thérèse Lebrun‘s intricate, paper thin creations require intense focus; I can’t imagine anything else enters her mind while she works. It’s the ultimate meditation, making room in the mind so that something raw and original can emerge. “My way of creating begins with doing, rather than thinking,” says Lebrun. I love this. Ceramics are a collaboration between clay and unconscious. The conscious mind kicks in to make practical decisions that pertain to function, but the rest of the time, you’re in another realm. I find Lebrun’s work exquisite and intense. Sea urchins, craters and winter seed heads spring to mind.

As a potter, I can tell you that function gets in the way of my fun. The minute I start measuring asparagus stalks, I lose my groove. I prefer to make a piece, and then figure out its use. And I think if we’re creative with our vessels, we can find a function for all of them. Tomatillos? Tea bags? Diamonds? I’ve got a bowl for you. I’m also very happy to fill my home with impractical objects that look beautiful and bring me joy. That’s it. Their only function. This week, I’ve made a series of platters that are just that. Someone might use them for shells, marbles or anything tiny and collectible, but I rather like them as they are. Circles within circles; fun over function.

There’s a joie de vivre to Abel Macias’ work that I’m instantly drawn to. Macias’ Mexican heritage shines through every brushstroke. His murals are exuberant; think swirly trees, Otomi birds and multi-coloured cacti. His paintings of rocks, rainbows and desert scenes have a childlike simplicity that’s hard not to love. There’s an inherently positive vibe that runs through his work. Just what the world needs right now.