Ceramics
Sophie Cousineau
A lifelong art enthusiast, Sophie explored several mediums (drawing, painting, watercolor, dance, music) before taking her first throwing class in 2018. She finally found her place: The contact with the clay material and the serenity that this practice gave me helped me refocus in my personal life.
She continues her training in arts and crafts at the Centre de Céramique Bonsecours and has created her own company, Céramik FiSo Kusinö.
My passion for ceramics is rooted in the infinite creative freedom that clay offers in my hands, transforming each block of clay into unique utilitarian and decorative pieces. Creating pieces that will become part of people's everyday lives or that can express emotions and tell stories is deeply gratifying. There's a beautiful responsibility in producing objects that carry a part of you inside them.
Joining l'Empreinte coopérative was a great honor for me when I left school in 2022. Not only has it allowed me to become an integral part of a tribe of passionate artists and craftspeople, sharing tips, laughter and maybe even a few tears of joy (or creative frustration, it happens!), but it has also given me the privilege of showcasing my work in a local market with an international reach thanks to the diversity of visitors to the Old Port of Montreal. Imagine: my creations come to life before the admiring eyes of visitors, while I forge links with other creative souls, exchanging crazy ideas or practical advice over a cup of coffee (or tea, I'm not judging!). It's as if every day becomes a celebration of our collective artistic adventure, inspiration and mutual support, which for an emerging artisan like me is a gold mine. On top of all these benefits, being a member allows you to get involved, learn and understand the ins and outs of retail.
How do you see the cooperative making a difference in the Quebec arts scene?
Arts cooperatives in Quebec do more than just provide a space to sell art; they create a dynamic community that supports innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth in the arts. They play an indispensable role in enriching the Quebec art scene, highlighting the diversity and richness of local creation. Given its perfect location in the Old Port of Montreal, the cooperative's influence is as much local as it is international.
Studio photo credits: Alain Lefort
