Mayco: Please tell us about yourself–what’s your background and how have you ended up where you are today?
I graduated from Columbus College of Art and Design in 2014 with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Ceramics. I took my first ceramics class in college while pursuing a degree in photography. After that first ceramics class, I was hooked and switched my major. My work is minimal, modern, and functional- everything I make is meant to be used. Now I work full time for a ceramic studio and make my work on the side!
Where did your interest in ceramics come from?
My interest in ceramics came from that first ceramics class I took in college. I really fell in love with throwing because I like to make things as symmetrical as I can. Throwing is very therapeutic for me. In addition, I enjoy the chemistry aspect of ceramics when it comes to making my own clays and glazes. I love the idea of making something functional- it seems so personal to me to shape a mug with my hands and have that be something someone is going to drink their morning coffee out of.
How would you describe your style of work, the materials you use and how you’re inspired?
I describe my work as being minimal and modern. I intend for my work to be placed in a person’s home and used. My work is versatile and fits well in the décor of nearly every home. I like to use a speckled clay body and matte glazes.
What are you favorite Mayco products to use? How do these products show off your work??
I love the Mayco Stoneware glazes! They are consistent and very stable. My favorites are: Black Matte, Alabaster, Matte Gray and the Light Flux.
What effect do you want your work to have on people??
I want people to think my work is beautiful and to enjoy using it. I want people to get enjoyment from taking a moment out of their day to enjoy their coffee from my mug or enjoy their plants in my planters.
Who is your ceramics “hero”, or an artist that you really look up to?
My good friend Elizabeth Downing! She makes beautiful functional work and I admire her creativity and the adorable things she creates!
What was the first piece of pottery you made (that you remember), and why did you fall in love with the art form?
The first piece of pottery I made was a bowl. I fell in love with pottery as an art form because it can be a beautiful piece of work but also be functional in your everyday life.
In addition to creating your own ceramic art, what are your hobbies?
My other hobbies are yoga, doing stuff outdoors and spending time with my three beautiful Pomeranians!
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
If I could visit anywhere (and I will one day), I would like to go to Iceland!
What would be the ultimate gift someone could give to you?
I think the ultimate gift someone could give me is more time in the day to get to do more fun things!
