In this exclusive interview, we sit down with our friend Sarah Hendriks Smith, the creative force behind Cisco & the Sun. With over 15 years of experience in Sydney’s vibrant hospitality and design industries, Sarah has made a name for herself by owning venues, designing exquisite tableware, and styling breathtaking events with floral installations. Recently, she and her family returned to their hometown of Perth, where they established a ceramics studio in North Fremantle. At Cisco & the Sun, Sarah and her team specialise in ceramic design and production, hosting group workshops, and curating a retail space showcasing in-house brands, art, and photography. Their ceramics, handcrafted from the mineral-rich clay of the Cambodian mountains and fired in wood-fuelled kilns, embody a unique blend of purposeful design and minimalist aesthetics, celebrating the timeless tradition of gathering around the table. Join us as we delve into Sarah’s deep connection to nature and the inspirations that drive her creative journey.
Describe your connection to nature: what positives does it bring to your life?
I have always had a deep connection to nature. Growing up it was camping in the bush, and with age I’ve realised how healing it is in my life. Even the mini moments in nature can have such an impact ~ a jump in the ocean, rain on your face, coffee in the garden, morning sun. Nature is now a huge part of our work life too, being involved in ceramics & floristry I feel as if we’ve invited the tactile elements of nature inside. When designing it’s our most influential inspiration driving form, colour pallet and feeling.
Is there a ritual or custom you have to bring nature into your home?
It’s a simple ritual, but fresh cut flowers or foliage from the garden! I also love making little potions from herbs and flowers – rosemary hair spray is a staple.
What is your favourite natural scent, and why?
No lavender bush is safe around me! It’s abundant outside our family shack in Yallingup, so it reminds me of the South West. There’s a little place up the road that sells Yallingup lavender as a roll on and my mum, sister and I have one of these in every bag. It’s beyond comforting.
Can you describe an experience when you’ve been made to feel fully in awe—and perhaps even uncomfortably—aware of the power of nature?
Would have to be diving with the whale sharks off the Exmouth coast. Swimming in the deep blue is instantly humbling. Followed by the sighting of these graceful, majestic, creatures I was completely in awe. Any experience deep sea swimming, dangling or diving gives me this feeling – the ocean holds all the power, and beauty.
What’s your favourite thing to do in nature?
Smile
