Two Sisters Crafting Beautiful Pottery and raising sheep in the French Alps

In the serene town of Les Gets, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes, a tale of familial heritage, artistic passion, and a deep connection to nature unfolds. Born into a family rooted in craftsmanship and the mountains, Anouk and Natalie’s journey is a harmonious blend of tradition, creativity, and a profound respect for the environment.

Their story commences with a unique lineage: a father renowned as a goat farmer, crafting the famed ‘chevrotin,’ and a mother, a spirited ski instructor with an artist’s soul. The amalgamation of these influences laid the foundation for an extraordinary venture—an idyllic fusion of a sheepfold and a pottery workshop.

Anouk, tending lovingly to the sheepfold, molds the raw clay into exquisite forms, while Natalie, leveraging her graphic design finesse, adorns the pottery with intricate, soulful decorations. Their devotion to this artisanal life resonates through every aspect, epitomizing a lifestyle in perfect symbiosis with nature’s rhythms.

This journey began as a passion, nurtured over years of dedicated learning and apprenticeship. Anouk’s journey into pottery started in 2002, delving into the craft’s multifaceted nuances through collaborations with various artisans. Her affinity for the earth’s connection became a meditative practice, each piece a testament to meticulous attention to detail and ceaseless creative exploration.

The path to recognition was paved with dedication. Starting in 2008, Anouk embarked on the dual role of potter and shepherd, introducing pottery to Les Gets. Through participation in markets and workshops, their creations soon gained acclaim, fostering a community that cherished their unique blend of functionality and artistry.

In 2012, Natalie’s artistic flair merged seamlessly with Anouk’s craftsmanship, infusing their creations with a whimsical, feel-good essence. Together, they envisioned everyday pottery that sparks joy, crafting white stoneware tableware that marries functionality with aesthetic allure.

The artistry behind each piece is a testament to patience and reverence for the earth. Meticulously shaped on the potter’s wheel, fired twice, hand-decorated, and glazed with food-safe enamel, every creation is an embodiment of uniqueness and care.

Their life in Les Gets is a celebration of the seasons—winter adorned with skiing adventures and summer embraced in pastoral pursuits. The changing landscapes dictate their rhythm, impacting their craft and echoing in their creations. Their commitment to eco-grazing reflects a profound reverence for their surroundings, a testament to their dedication to preserving the environment they hold dear.

Amidst this journey, annual pottery festivals became a cornerstone, a platform for creative exploration and connection with kindred spirits. Each gathering unearthed new inspirations, sparking innovation and driving their perpetual quest to explore uncharted artistic territories.

Their advice for aspiring artisans echoes their own ethos: Embrace your passion with joy and authenticity, relish the learning process, trust your instincts, and embark on a heartfelt journey of creation.

For Anouk and Natalie, being a potter transcends mere craftsmanship; it’s a lifestyle intricately woven with nature’s elements and a profound respect for life—a testament to the beauty of a life shaped by artistry, tradition, and a deep-rooted love for the environment.