Rob Droessler
Droessler Ceramics
Kent, Washington
Website
www.facebook.com/RobDroesslerCeramics/
Email
robdroessler@mac.com
Artist Statement
Currently my work is influenced by many things, but mostly dilapidated structures such as old forest fire look-out towers, mining structures, and railroad bridges. These architectural forms influence the work, but instinct and spontaneity guide the form.
Studio Description
My studio is wherever I am working at that moment. I have a classroom where I create many things on the pottery wheel. I also have a studio at home, but I mostly create sculptural objects there.
What type of clay do you use?
Paper clay mostly for sculpture. A little of everything for pottery.
What temperature do you fire to?
cone 4–5 for sculpture and cone 5–10 for pottery
What is your primary forming method?
Slab building for sculpture. Potter's wheel for vessels
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Deep texture
Do you make any of your own tools?
Sometimes I create stamps, or texture and shaping tools out of old gift cards.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Architectural
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
The freedom to create
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Radio
What are your top three studio wishes?
More space. Slab roller. Big kiln.
What’s on your current reading list?
Science for Potters by Linda Bloomfield
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Recycle clay constantly.
How do you recharge creatively?
Explore architecture. Especially old trusses bridges if I can find them. I will also put down the clay and pick up a camera and play.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Get my work shown more.
What did your first piece look like?
Dog turd with a hole poked in it. I didn't take to the potter's wheel right away.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
To be able to center and throw hundreds of pounds of clay, because I like to make large work.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
Roy Strassberg
What is your studio playlist?
It's eclectic. Mostly hard rock. No country. Micheal Jackson, Foo Fighters, and talk radio.
Why do you create art?
It's an instinct. I have to make art the same way I need to eat, sleep, breathe.
What is your best studio tip?
Windows and natural light if you can get it.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
I don't understand the question.
