Winner: Marie Claire Sustainability Awards 2023

Meet Amy Louise Davis, artist and founder of Alou

Amy Louise Davis is and artist and maker with a penchant for sustainable practices. Taking inspiration from her surroundings in Stoke-On-Trent and beyond, Amy produces sculptural art that centres on unique materials and the possibilities they offer. Read on to find out how she developed her fascinating practice.

Image of Amy Louise Davis

What is some advice you have for aspiring makers?

Be open to making creative mistakes, as it's the mistakes which open up an abundance of opportunities.

What are your favourite materials to work with?

I particularly like to work with more malleable materials such as wire and rope, because they enable my sculptures and vessels to take on more organic and free flowing characteristics. 

Do you have a favourite work you’ve made to date?

I'd say it's got to be a piece called Metamorphosis, which is a pink nest-like sculpture which is inspired by the regeneration and evolving of the former Spode ceramic factory site in Stoke-on-Trent.

pink sculpture made of tangled thick wire

How did you get into your craft?

Once I completed my BTEC at college, I then went on to study an Embroidery BA (Hons) at university. It was there I not only started to become more and more curious about materials so often overlooked by society, but I also started to recognise the importance of making and how it can be used as a tool to relax and unwind.

What do you do in your spare time?

I absolutely love a gig or two, but I also love spending time with my two French Bulldogs, Smidge and Beau.

Wiry sculpture in lilac and yellow