Muguerza, Carmela

Carmela Muguerza,
10Bit,
San Antonio, Texas

Artist Statement:

I graduated as a ceramist in Argentina, moved to Guadalajara, set up my own studio and learnt traditional techniques from local artisans. I taught ceramics, worked on my own pieces and on custom made pieces. I especially like experimenting with fire.

Studio Description:

I opened the ceramic space in 10Bit makerspace. I got 2 kilns out of 3 donated ones, an act of cannibalism as Don who helped me said.I have a home made. I have access to the wood, metal and glass fusion spaces, and to the laser cutter and 3D printer.

What type of clay do you use?

As I have been living in different places,I like using local clay,and if I need to I prepare my own.

What temperature do you fire to?

Low fire, I like to play with alternative fires. Now I’m playing about with medium fire.

What is your primary forming method?

I use mix techniques but if I have to choose one, hand modelling is the one.

What is your favorite surface treatment?

I love textures, rough surfaces and contrast.

Do you make any of your own tools?

I use whatever I have at hand, pens, forks, nails, fabric, I have a box full of “tools”. I may use a credit card cut into different shapes. And sometimes I make my own, for example I ‘ve made brushes with natural squirrels’ fur.

What one word would you use to describe your work?

Potpourri.

What is your favorite thing about your studio?

I have all kinds of tools and equipment to work with all kinds of material.

What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?

The kiln.

What are your top three studio wishes?

I can imagine a big studio, with a lot of light and green around, and no neighbours that complain about the smell and smoke from the kiln.

What’s on your current reading list?

I’m new in this country, so I’m learning the terminology from ceramic magazines.

How do you save money on materials and supplies?

I recycle all my clay. I prepare my own under glaze and I modify glazes.

How do you recharge creatively?

I take a break,breath deeply and disconnect myself from work,take a walk, observe my surroundings and see if I find anything that triggers a new idea.

Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?

I find the laser cutter in 10Bit makerspace very efficient to cut out a design in wood, a logo for example, and then stamp it into many cups.

What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?

I have had to start from the very beginning, so I aspire to have my own studio as I used to have before I moved to this country.

What did you first piece look like?

I made my first piece when I was about 6. It was newborn Jesus. It looked like a sausage with eyes! Mom still has it for Christmas.

What ceramic superpower would you have and why?

I’d have her unique personality which she gives entirely to the ceramist to model her with care and dedication 'cause she gives herself just as she is.

Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?

Artisans and ceramists I have worked with have enriched me. Each of them has somehow been a mentor.

What is your studio playlist?

I don’t have one. I can jump from tango, to reggae, to rock. It all depends on my mood.

Why do you create art?

I need it. It gives me satisfaction, illusion, insights.

What is your best studio tip?

Enjoy the process without attaching to a final result. Move on with the piece.

If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?

She is perfect as she is.I would miss the attraction of discovering what I can or can’t do with her.