INTERVIEWS
MAISON 123
Sofia Moser Leitao
Sofia Moser Leitao, a Portuguese ceramist based in France, invites us into her colorful and artisanal world through creations inspired by materials, fashion and her roots.
How did ceramics come into your life, and what does it represent for you today ?
Ceramics came into my life gradually, somewhat by chance at first. I’ve always loved creating with my hands, and it was through experimenting that I really started to take an interest in it. Today, ceramics is for me a simple and concrete way to express what I feel, to work with materials and to tell a story through each piece. It’s a balance between ancient craftsmanship and personal creation, something very alive.
At what point did you know that ceramics would be more than a hobby, but a real professional path ?
I don’t think there was a specific moment. It happened gradually. I’ve always tried to keep my feet on the ground, and even today, I sometimes struggle to call myself a “ceramist,” because I also do other things on the side.
At first, when I arrived in Paris, for my first three years I worked in fashion almost full-time, then I became freelance and started collaborating with brands as well. In parallel, ceramics took up more and more space. An important moment was when my pieces were exhibited at PAD in London and Paris, and an important French designer bought several of my vases. It really made me realize that my work had value and real potential, and it gave me confidence.
SOFIA MOSER LEITAO
DISCOVER SOFIA'S LOOK
Colors and patterns play a major role in your work. Where do you draw your inspiration from?
For me, it comes mainly intuitively. I grew up in Lisbon, a city full of light, colors and life. That joyful and luminous atmosphere marked me deeply, and I think it shows in my work.
Since I’ve been living in Paris, which is a grayer city (but which I love!), I often go back and forth to Lisbon, which helps me maintain that energy.
I’m also very inspired by what I see around me: exhibitions, other artists, patterns on clothes, in books or films. Inspiration can come from anywhere, often from the most unexpected places.
SOFIA MOSER LEITAO
What advice would you give to a young creator who wants to make a living from her art?
For me, it comes mainly intuitively. I grew up in Lisbon, a city full of light, colors and life. That joyful and luminous atmosphere marked me deeply, and I think it shows in my work.
Since I’ve been living in Paris, which is a grayer city (but which I love!), I often go back and forth to Lisbon, which helps me maintain that energy.
I’m also very inspired by what I see around me: exhibitions, other artists, patterns on clothes, in books or films. Inspiration can come from anywhere, often from the most unexpected places.
I’m also very inspired by what I see around me: exhibitions, other artists, patterns on clothes, in books or films. Inspiration can come from anywhere, often from the most unexpected places.
SOFIA MOSER LEITAO
What place does Portugal hold in your creative universe ?
Portugal is very important to me. Beyond the colors and the light, it’s a country where ceramics are part of the tradition, and that touches me deeply. I love being part of this generation of young people who work with their hands, between art and craftsmanship. Sometimes, craftsmanship is a bit undervalued, but I find it so fascinating, and it’s really part of my identity.
