Mary McGill, Mary McGill Ceramics, Camarillo, California
Email: marymc57@aol.com
Website: http://marymcgillceramics.com/
Artist Statement: I am so fortunate to have found my passion for the process and practice of ceramics. Ceramics is one of the most complex art forms, with endless possibilities, and I never stop learning and experimenting.
Studio Description:
My studio is in an art center where I have 800 glorious feet to create! My floors are concrete and the windows are aplenty!
What type of clay do you use?
Mainly Max's Paper clay.
What temperature do you fire to?
I mostly fire to cone 6.
What is your primary forming method?
Hand.
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Texture, from ripping, folding and tools.
Do you make any of your own tools?
No.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Organic.
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
Floors.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
My Couch...
What are your top three studio wishes?
Hmmm... .more task lighting... more storage, more shelves for drying work.
What’s on your current reading list?
Being Mortal by Atul Gawande.
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
I don't think I save much money...
How do you recharge creatively?
By seeing a lot of art.. galleries, festivals, museums...
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
Bigger...
What did you first piece look like?
Pinch pot bowl.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
More strength.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
Tom Coleman, love his surfaces.
What is your studio playlist?
Pandora-Sting.
Why do you create art?
I create art, because I live it, feel it and breathe it.. everywhere I look I see scale, design, and beauty.
What is your best studio tip?
Teach classes, helps make ends meet.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
Not so drying to the skin!
