Leah Schaperow
Milk Oolong Pottery
San Diego, California
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Artist Statement
Humans have long struggled to control nature. My art is inspired by this struggle. The idea of controlled nature is an oxymoron, however, because control and nature are opposites, each equal in strength. The human condition is to work toward creating a perfect environment where there is no disease or discomfort. This struggle can be seen in botanical gardens where humans attempt to shape the natural world. Each art piece I create takes basic elements of nature and transforms them into a small part of our continuing story. In experimenting with glaze recipes and firing methods, I must relinquish control. Each new work emerges from the kiln transformed by the heat, telling new stories about the interactions between nature and human’s struggle for control. Sometimes a glossy surface appears as a frozen lake or flowing lava.
Studio Description
It is an open airy space with large windows. It also has a gallery section as well as a working space with 7 pottery wheels and an electric kiln. The studio is located in the arts district by a bike path, the waterfront, and many restaurants.
What type of clay do you use?
Porcelain and black clay
What temperature do you fire to?
Cone 5
What is your primary forming method?
Wheel throwing
What is your favorite surface treatment?
Sgraffito
Do you make any of your own tools?
Not that I can think of.
What one word would you use to describe your work?
Daydream
What is your favorite thing about your studio?
The sunlight that comes through the large windows.
What is the one thing in your studio you can’t live without?
Glaze kitchen
What are your top three studio wishes?
A regular sink, more space for glazes, and a standing wheel
What’s on your current reading list?
Science for Potters by Linda Bloomfield
How do you save money on materials and supplies?
I mix my own glazes, recycle clay, and use a recycling sink.
How do you recharge creatively?
I go bird watching, visit to botanical gardens, dance tango, camp, and go to the beach.
Do you have any DIY tips for studio efficiency?
A recycling sink and an area for clay recycling.
What challenges have you given yourself to overcome?
I've started a business running a studio with classes, camps, open studio, and gallery. I didn't study business so every day I find a new challenge to work on.
What did your first piece look like?
It was a pinch pot with purple butterfly wings.
What ceramic superpower would you have and why?
Understanding glazes and surface decoration through carving, slip trailing, drawing, and painting.
What area of skill do you most look to other artists to learn?
Slip casting
Who is your ceramic art mentor and why?
Matt Katz for the amazing chemistry skills I've learned from him.
What is on your studio playlist?
Argentine tango music as well as some podcasts
Why do you create art?
Art is my meditation, there are too many reasons to list here.
Who is your favorite artist and what do you admire about that artist?
Joe Thomson has freely shared his glaze recipes and tips over social media. It's been really helpful.
What is your best studio tip?
Keep your workspace neat, clean, and organized. There should always be an empty shelf waiting to be filled with your creations.
If you could change one property of clay, what would it be?
Non-cracking clay while it dries
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