Kaitlyn Mugg

Mayco: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Kaitlyn Mugg, and I am an artist based in Washington, Illinois. I was born and raised in Redlands, California. While majoring in art at Eureka college, my mom and I started a paint and sip studio in Washington called Art at the Bodega. As the business grew, we expanded into a paint your own pottery studio. As well as running the studio, I’m also busy doing work for Industry Brewery, a local craft beer brewery, where I design labels for their beers as well as logos for their brand.

What drew you towards working with ceramics?

I think what drew me towards working with ceramics was the addition of paint your own pottery at the studio.

How would you describe your style of work, the materials you use and how you’re inspired?

My style of work consists of realism and fan art. I’m very inspired by movies and the television shows that I watch, and when something really catches my eye I just have to paint it! I typically use Stroke & Coat glazes so I can get all the details just right and not have to worry about it moving around in the kiln.

Can you briefly describe your production process?

As far as production goes I usually sketch or print out the image, and then transfer it to the piece. I then paint a coat of a light color and start filling in the details until its ready for baking!

How do Mayco glazes and products fit into your work?

I use Mayco glazes every day, especially the Stroke & Coats, mainly because of their ability to mix and being able to layer light colors over dark colors. That comes in handy with all the highlights!

Is there a universal concept or theme that you would like to retain as the foundation to all your future work?

My theme is to paint what I want to paint! I enjoy tv shows and movies that are dark so I tend to steer in that direction, but I recently painted a Dumbo plate because he was too cute not to so…

Can you tell us a little about your studio space? How important is this environment in the conceptualization of your work?

At the studio space, I’m mostly working with customers and helping with their projects, but when I get a chance to come in early and create my own creations all I’ve got to do is pump up my jams and get into the zone!

What have been the most influential and career changing experiences you have had? What about these experiences was so important?

I would say the most career-changing experience I have ever had was working with industry on their beer labels. They had gotten ahold of me and wanted my style specifically, and I really got to be a part of a creative team! Coming up with ideas that I love, the team shattering my dreams and then coming up with something better together! I love it! It also opened my eyes to the fact that I can do the art that I love commercially.

Can you tell us about any future projects?

I smell an Avengers theme in the near future! Game of Thrones, maybe? Church from Pet Sematary? Too many things to paint, so little time!

When you’re not making or promoting your work, what do you do for fun?

When I’m not working on my art I’m usually doing my best to be inspired via Netflix or the local movie theatre. I might be thinking about how my two pups are the best pups or that I have the cutest cat. That’s what I’m doing now, at least