This time, we’re talking with Felícia Sugár, the Budapest-based ceramic artist and mother behind Voy Studio — a creative space dedicated to handcrafted, functional ceramics. Felícia spent five transformative years in Malaysia, where she honed her technique and began her journey as a ceramic artist by starting her own business.
In this interview, among other interesting facts about her, she shares her path to becoming a potter, her creative perspective, and how she balances life as an artist, a mother, and a business owner.
Who or what inspired you to pursue an art career?
I have always gravitated towards art. As a child, I was constantly drawing, painting, making collages–always creating something with my hands. Still, becoming an artist didn’t seem like a realistic career choice back then. It wasn’t encouraged in my environment, so I took a very different path and studied economics.
Art, however, never really left me, it remained a constant interest and hobby.
During my years working in fashion - as store manager for a designer label - my creative abilities were noticed by people I deeply looked up to and it gave me the confidence to explore a more authentic path.
Pottery found me after stumbling across a photo of a handmade ceramic cup. Simple shape with beautiful glazing that reminded me of an abstract painting. The idea of blending function and art resonated with me so much that I decided to learn how to make such objects. I signed up for a pottery course–and that was ten years ago this January.
Can you share an important moment in your life or career that shaped your artistic or entrepreneurial path?
Living in Malaysia for five years was deeply transformative–for both my artistic practice and personal growth. I worked in Kuala Lumpur but spent all of my free time travelling and exploring South-East Asia and beyond. I was immersed in this whole new world where every mundane detail felt exciting and inspiration was everywhere.
It was also a humbling experience—living in a different culture really pushed me outside my comfort zone. It prompted a lot of inner work and self-discovery, a healing process I didn’t expect but truly needed. It was a challenging yet deeply beautiful era of my life. My first son was also born there, which made it all the more meaningful.
That period definitely left a mark on me and my work and deeply influenced the aesthetic values of the pieces I create today.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
Clay itself is full of challenges! It’s unpredictable, and things go wrong often–but every time I solve a problem it really builds my resilience and adds to my knowledge so I try to keep this in mind when a new challenge comes.
Balancing business career while being a mum can be challenging. How do you find that balance?
We’ve just entered a new phase where both of my children are at daycare, and I’m enjoying the return of some personal freedom. I also have a very supportive family which helps finding more balance in this complex and delicate system - but it is still hard work. As for my creative flow, that’s actually the least complicated part. Motherhood has given me a new source of inspiration, energy and skill set which is really beneficial for my work, both creatively and practically.
Beyond your creative pursuits, what are your other passions and how do they influence your work?
I love travelling and exploring new places, it recharges me like nothing else.
I am also fond of flowers. I buy fresh ones every week, and I love arranging and drawing them. Their colors, shape and scents inspire me endlessly.
What advice do you have for women who are aspiring to make a mark in the art/business world?
Allow yourself to make mistakes. We live in a fast-paced, performance-driven time which can make any failure feel like something to avoid. But in my experience, mistakes are powerful teachers. They help refine your direction and make you better at what you do.
Describe your ideal creative space. What elements make it inspiring for you?
Bright, natural light. That’s all I really need. Everything looks more alive and beautiful in good light, it lifts the whole mood of a space.
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would it be?
Somewhere quiet, campervanning in New Zealand.
What's your morning ritual that sets a positive tone for the day?
Mornings can be quite chaotic, so if I can have my coffee while sitting down, it’s a win.
Most-used Emoji: 💗
Do you have an unexpected or quirky talent that people might not know about?
I have quite a photographic memory. There’s not a single thing in our apartment I can’t locate - which is a real superpower with two small kids.
Is there something unusual or unexpected that you have in your wardrobe? What is your favorite piece of clothing and why?
Many of my core pieces are over a decade old. During my fashion days, I built a pretty strong wardrobe that still feels relevant and ‘me’. Even though I love beautiful clothes and expressing myself through dressing, I try to stay mindful of my fashion choices–I buy garments when necessary and almost always second-hand.
Could you describe your clothing style? What do you most like to wear?
Laid-back with a twist I would say. As I get older, comfort has become non-negotiable so it’s mostly jeans and t-shirt but I like to add details that spice things up a bit, like a bold color combination, an interesting silhouette or a statement accessory.
Which is your favorite OAT AVA piece? What are 3 words that first come to your mind about OAT AVA products?
I love the vests—cool, versatile, and so well made.
Quality | Comfort | Colorful
Favorite movie:
Latest is Perfect Days by Wim Wenders
Country you haven't visited yet but would like to:
A top 10 would be easier to name but right now I’d go to Kyrgyzstan or Japan
Three things you're very grateful for:
My family, my health, nature
