Who is Ruth?
Ruth is a product designer who enjoys making things that tell a story and the people who use them become part of the narrative. Ruth also designs prints for ceramic surfaces inspired by real and surreal environments, experiences, travel and different cultures.
Why does London inspire me?
London is a multi cultural city that is constantly changing but still manages to retain some of its past history. The modern blends well with the old and the aromas of different cuisines and sounds of different music travels around me. I feel comfortable being who I am in this great city where I was born and raised but also of Nigerian heritage. There is a myriad of feelings that the city of London conjures up within me when I am outside and I learn so much from the environment and the people within it everyday.
My Craft London work is...
The Asiko Glamour Girls collection is a set of ceramic storage vessels that have a sophisticated modern appeal to the western market with a strong West African aesthetic. The surface has enamel prints inspired by the Dutch Wax cloths worn by the famous Nigerian actresses who starred in the iconic nineties film called Glamour Girls.
With layered gold lustres and enamel spray paint images inspired by the busy city life of Lagos in Nigeria, the collection is an eccentric refreshing burst of colour and bold forms, that reflects the personalities of the characters played in Glamour Girls. The ceramic vessels serve as a tribute to these famous Nigerian women who are to this day, seen as modern stylish women.
Why am I the one to watch?
I am the designer to watch as there is nothing out there on the market like the products I design and make. I have managed to get the western and African styles in sync with one another and it respects both the heritage of Nigeria and the ceramic heritage and history in terms of manufacturing in Stoke on Trent in England. My products are like art collectibles that are functional and enhance the beauty of your living space. The narratives that influence my work are original to other designers and my company has a strong unique image and brand that people like.
What does the future hold?
Merbi Ceramics which is my design company, will be exhibiting the different ranges of ceramic storage units, tableware and other kitchen accessories at trade fairs in London and abroad in Paris and New York for the next two years. I want to increase the awareness of the Merbi brand and products through press and for people to be able to buy the products online on the website www.merbi.co.uk and in retail stores across the globe. I also want to diversify into designing prints for fabrics and wallpapers.
