🎧 2026 Emerging Artist: Autumn McKay, Cincinnati, Ohio Ceramics Monthly

The audio file for this article was produced by the Ceramic Arts Network staff and not read by the author.

Ceramics Monthly: Do you maintain a sketchbook for idea generation or as a supplement to your work with clay? If so, describe its use. If not, describe how you gather thoughts and ideas.

Autumn McKay: In the past, I have relied on my sketchbook to keep the well of inspiration full when I didn’t have access to a studio. I would often sketch on the bus, at my restaurant job before the rush, or at the bar after work. Nowadays, because I spend more time in the studio with clay, I often rely on photos I’ve taken over time. That collection of photos continues to grow as I take in more information with every new experience. 

CM: What is the most valuable advice you’ve received as an artist?

AM: Just show up. Years ago, my mentor told me to just show up, and she made it seem so very simple. Showing up to the studio isn’t always easy, especially when life can get difficult, and showing up to give it everything I’ve got looks different every day. Some days I am in the studio for 10+ hours, and other days I am there for a few hours, struggling to find inspiration. But I don’t need every day in my studio to be long and intense; some days I need to slow down to regain focus and energy. Some days I need to spend time chatting with other folks in the studio. I think, for me, it can be really easy to get caught up in the thought that I should always be making, working, hustling, and that can become a lot of pressure on myself. So, I am reminded to “just show up” and that it doesn’t matter how much I accomplish, but that I even showed up in the first place.

Learn more at autumnmckayceramics.squarespace.com or follow on Instagram @_autumnmckay.

May 2026: Table of Contents

Must-Reads from Ceramics Monthly

• 🎧 The Ceramic Bell Jar
• 🎧 Q&A with Misty Gamble
• 🎧 Edmund de Waal: The Memory of Wind