In Living Color

Ceramicist and designer Jill Rosenwald draws inspiration from music, fashion, and the comforts of home.

jill rosenwald

Photograph by Webb Chappell

The mark of true artists is their signature style, and Boston-based Jill Rosenwald has hers down pat. Her wares, which these days include everything from hand-painted ceramic bowls and vases to lush rugs and bedding, are instantly recognizable by their bold patterns and vibrant colors. “The person I design for is preppy with an edge,” Rosenwald says. “I start with a vibe or feeling and will rework something until I land on just the right flavor.” It’s an exhaustive process, she admits, but one that has certainly paid off. In the nearly two decades since Rosenwald launched her eponymous company, she’s gone from selling her ceramics on the streets of New York (her hometown) to collaborating with major retailers like Neiman Marcus and Bed, Bath & Beyond.

Here, the designer shares a few of the things that inspire her vibrant collections:


 

photographs by Elliott Erwitt/Magnum Photos; courtesy of frank and eileen; dollars and scents (rigaud candle); lekker (savon de marseilles); alexander gray associates, new york (vera neumann)


On File

What I’m Reading

The Asylum by Simon Doonan, the creative ambassador of Barneys New York. It’s about his insane adventures in the fashion biz. The book is laugh-out-loud hysterical.”

What I’m Watching

“I’m in love with Transparent, a show about a father coming out as a transgender woman to his adult children and how they all weather the storm that inevitably ensues. Genius television with amazing writing and acting.”

What I’m Drinking

“I live for my daily skim mocha from Flour Bakery + Café. It’s rich, thick, and chocolatey. They start making it as soon as I walk through the door. I only need to nod.”

What I’m Wearing

“A plain white tee from J.Crew, my favorite boyfriend jeans from Levi’s, a printed Block Shop Textiles scarf, and the perfect leather boots from Fiorentini + Baker. They’re tough as nails and beautifully crafted.”

What I’m Listening to

“Everything and anything by Sufjan Stevens. It’s moody, spiritual, and calming.”