Coco Costigan
Santa Monica, California
Websitewww.cococostiganart.com
Artist Statement
Coco takes inanimate objects from the past and brings life to them by recreating them out of clay.
These life like sculptures are sentimental and symbolic to Coco and her family. Memories of an era that people can relate to—as well as reflect upon.
Studio Description
I have had 3 studio spaces since 1997. Each one located either on my property or very close to home. My current studio is warm and inviting. It feels like a cabin with big windows and a beautiful fireplace. I turn on some music and start creating.
What type of clay do you use?
Low-fire EM330, a white clay body by Laguna Clay Co.
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 06 – 1880° F
What is your primary forming method?
Depending on what it is I am making, I use: slab, wheel, and carving methods.
What is your favorite surface treatment?
For a realistic approach, my favorite surface treatment is acrylic paint. I do like clear glaze, too.
Do you make any of your own tools?
I have made my own tools and I do use them, however, I find some of the best tools to be random objects which create various textures. These textures help to interpret the realistic look I am trying to achieve.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Memories
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
My current studio is my childhood guest house. It houses many of the items I recreate.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
The large windows that look out to nature.
What are your top three studio wishes?
Large space.
Lots of light.
Located on my property.
What’s on your current reading list?
Julie Clark - The Ones We Choose.
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Use my glazes and paints conservatively. Reconstitute the clay-creating dishes with character.
How do you recharge creatively?
I enjoy looking at architecture and collecting antiques. I also love having animals to care for.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Just do it! Focus on what it is you want to make, and set time aside for doing it.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Promoting my work has been my biggest challenge.
What did your first piece look like?
When I was about 8 years old, I made a scary mask with horns. I still have this ceramic piece somewhere in storage.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
Hummm—I want my hands and my back to stay strong and feel good so that I can continue to load/unload kilns and be able to move/lift my work.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
Marilyn Levine
What is your studio playlist?
Cold Play, Enya, Sarah Vaughan, Beatles, Elton John
Why do you create art?
I create, so that I can share my work as well as my skills with others. Teaching art brings me joy and helps others learn to cope in this crazy world.
What is your best studio tip?
Make sure your studio is neat and organized before starting a new piece.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
That it not be so fragile.
