Lynn Rutman
Cotuit, Massachusetts
Website
https://lynnrutmanceramics.etsy.com/
Instagram
@Lynnrutman
Facebook
Lynnrutmanceramics
Artist Statement
I am a potter who resides near the ocean on Cape Cod. I am inspired by the rugged beauty of the sea and the concept of wabi sabi. There is a lot of history here. My work is influenced by the timeworn appearance of the antique buildings and the old boats. I am drawn to layered textures and interesting patinas. I want my vessels to look just as rusty and aged as the ones I see moored at the harbor. Sometimes I incorporate poetry in my work. Sometimes the poetry is original and other times I honor the work of others.
Studio Description
I share a basement studio with my husband, Al Rutman, who is a woodworker and luthier. He makes a lot of sawdust!
What type of clay do you use?
Stoneware
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 5
What is your primary forming method?
Handbuilding
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Texture
Do you make any of your own tools?
Yes. Doesn’t everybody?
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Antiqued
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
It’s warm!
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
My new L&L Kiln
What are your top three studio wishes?
A bigger kiln, big windows, a ground-level studio
What’s on your current reading list?
Making Marks by Robin Hopper
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
By not being wasteful
How do you recharge creatively?
Walking the beach
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
Keep everything organized in designated spots
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
I push myself every day to think unconventionally and to break the rules from time to time.
What did your first piece look like?
Like a pancake run over by a train!
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
I would like to master the wheel because it is fun and fast, but I really love hand-building more.
What area of skill do you most look to other artists to learn?
I truly admire potters, like Ron Myers, Bede Clark, Keok Blim, and Craig Underhill, who play with unusual and unconventional surface design that is uniquely their own.
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
My friend, Carol Goldberg, who is a painter, sculptor, and potter. Carol encourages me to break the rules and to never give up on a piece.
What is on your studio playlist?
Music, music, music! My husband and I are musicians.
Why do you create art?
I create art because, as it turns out, I have a lot to say.
Who is your favorite artist and what do you admire about that artist?
My favorite artist is Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875). She continued making pots, often inscribed with her own poetry, despite experiencing great tragedy.
What is your best studio tip?
Clean as you go.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
I would not change anything. I love clay just the way it is.
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