Ceramics Monthly Articles (Simple)

The inspiration behind my work comes from highly tactile processes—handcraft traditions like sewing, quilting, and knitting.

My research is multi-faceted, driven by my desire to capture moments of psychological realism. In addition to the study of anatomy, I’m fascinated by the brain-body connection, trauma responses, and the ways our bodies hold and tell stories.

Whether I am teaching in a classroom or talking with friends, I encourage everyone in my life to make something, no matter what it is or how good it turns out.

For me, working in clay is about shaping a narrative that reflects my identity as someone who is half Korean and half white.

I draw inspiration from various landscapes and how they evolve over time. When developing forms, I focus on volume and breath to convey growth, resulting in forms that appear to bloom from the table.

Having studied anthropology before pursuing ceramics, I have always admired the existing fragments of material culture from generations past, particularly metal cooking implements.

The nature of my work is chaotic and precarious. I can try to push against it, but it’s always more rewarding to see where it wants to take me.

Both the design and conceptual meaning are shaped by an in-depth study of women depicted in 17th-century historical paintings. Through sketches, I give these figures a new, contemporary meaning and place them in a modern context.

Inspiration for my surfaces comes from objects that carry a sense of history, nostalgia, and comfort.

My interests at the time influence the direction the piece takes, whether from art history, books, or personal experiences. I keep albums of pictures from history and everyday life that often become reference imagery for pieces.

Every piece I create is an opportunity to learn, and that continuous exploration is one of my greatest motivations.

Instruments can be made out of all sorts of materials, including clay. Such ceramic instruments can still be found in use in the porcelain capital of Jingdezhen.

Current and Upcoming Exhibitions

Water etching is a greenware surface treatment used to create relief. A water-resistant material is applied to greenware and allowed to dry.

In this May issue, I am thrilled to present the 20 finalists of Ceramics Monthly’s 2025 Emerging Artist contest.

Linda Southwell’s quiet sculptures reflect her passion for the natural world and concerns for the trajectory of the environment.

Marked by vibrant colors, rich textures, multi-media components, and engaging narrative, the sculptural work of Emily Counts is full of contrasts.

Teegan and Jeff Nordhues established Pax Lighting in Nebraska with skills and professional experience in furniture manufacturing and corporate design.

Make the most of materials you have by pushing the limits of their standard use. Here, Rhonda Willers experiments with terra sigillata.