Jane Hammoud
Created in Clay
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Artist Statement
I retired 10 years ago and took up pottery as my primary hobby. I enjoy throwing on the wheel and hand building to create functional items using stoneware and porcelain. Each of my items are unique, as I love experimenting.
Studio Description
My studio is in our finished basement which has been a bit of a challenge. My unique throwing area is actually in the shower! I sit outside and the wheel is inside. Easy to clean. I have taken over the entire basement with racks of finished pots!
What type of clay do you use?
cone 5–6 B-mix from laguna, as well as their porcelain
What temperature do you fire to?
cone 5...but as soon as I get my own kiln, it will be 5 and 6.
What is your primary forming method?
Mostly throwing, some altering, and handbuilding
What is your favorite surface treatment?
I mostly paint on glazes, but occasionally have the patience to do underglaze with resists.
Do you make any of your own tools?
No, but I’m always on the lookout for items I might want to use someday, saving bits and pieces of stuff that you never know might come in handy at the right moment.
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
It's in my home and I can go down any time I want to work without going outside!
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Tabletop space, shelves. I am always spread out.
What are your top three studio wishes?
Kiln...( this will happen soon.), Better lighting, Wish the floor wasn’t carpeted!
What’s on your current reading list?
Georgia: A Novel of Georgia O’Keefe
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
Only buy when on sale, rarely pay shipping, go to estate sales.
How do you recharge creatively?
Go on long walks and “artist dates”. Read Julia Cameron’s books to understand that term!
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Clean up after yourself as much as possible... have a place for everything.. then you can find things when you need them.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Slowing down and lack of patience. I have always prided myself on being efficient and quick. That doesn’t work with pottery!
What did your first piece look like?
A fat little cup with a thick bottom.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
To be able to tell the clay just how dry or wet I want it at any moment.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
All the wonderful potters in the world who inspire me!
What is on your studio playlist?
Peace and quiet...no music...just the noise in my head!
Why do you create art?
Because it makes me feel good doing it.
What is your best studio tip?
For me, it is to only work when I am not tired or feeling pressured to get something done.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
Don’t crack!