Karine Gilbert

A native of Granville, Karine Gilbert has always loved craft activities, though until now she had not found one that would allow her to fulfil her potential.

Deeply devoted to her family, she enjoys both spending quality time with them and finding peace and quiet in her studio.

Her journey into ceramics began almost by chance. After bringing up her three children whilst supporting her husband, a fishing boat owner, in his work, and then spending six years working in the ready-to-wear fashion industry, she was one day given a ceramics course by one of her sons. It was a revelation.

She converted a small outbuilding at the bottom of her garden into her studio, gradually acquiring the necessary equipment and practising more and more. Little by little, ceramics took centre stage in her life, eventually becoming her profession.

A self-taught artist, Karine works mainly with stoneware. What she loves about this material is its endless possibilities, the feel of it and its texture, but also the patience it demands.

With clay, nothing is ever completely under control. You have to accept the little imperfections, the surprises of the firing process and, sometimes, the failures. But that is also what makes each creation unique and the moment of discovery, when the kiln is opened, particularly rewarding.

Nothing is ever completely under control. That is also what makes the result so satisfying.

Of all her creations, the ‘Tourelle du Loup’ holds a special place. This piece reflects Karine’s roots and the town where she was born and raised: Granville.

It can now be found atthe Tourist Office, serving as a lovely link between her creative world and the area where she grew up.

‘La Tourelle du Loup’ reflects my roots and the town where I was born and grew up.