Why did you first start working with ceramics and how did you get into it? Did anyone inspire you?
I first started working with ceramics in 2017. I was looking for a reprieve from my fine art photography practice and I was gifted a class with the BRILLIANT ceramics artist Maggie Boyd for my birthday that year. Maggie has been an incredible mentor to me. Her work and approach are a huge inspiration. So is the sculptural work of Joakim Ojanen.
What’s the most unique aspect of your creative process? Like what gets you going?
My photographic work tends to be quite intimate and understated, but to many of my collector’s surprise, my ceramic work is really playful and extremely unapologetic. When Im taking photos it’s a private exchange between me and whoever I am shooting. When I am in a studio making ceramics its just me and some clay and some black metal or some serial killer podcast. Its soooo much fun not having to think about anything or anyone other than your hands and some dirt.
Do you plan/scheme any of your pieces before tackling the shape or kind of wing it?
It depends on my mood, to be honest. Pieces like the “FUCK” bong are constantly evolving and I have no idea what the end result will be until I get there. Other pieces are a little more pre-meditated. When I’m particularly stoked on a piece I tend to make iterations on it cause it usually gets better and better with each stab at it.
Where does the theme of your latest ceramic pieces (for Primo) come from? Have you seen anything like this?
Honestly, I was sharing studio space with a bunch of people who are very into traditional ceramics… as you can imagine my work doesn’t always resonate with people having that sensibility. I guess I was being a Scorpio brat and started to write “fuck” all over some cups, trying to ruffle a few feathers, and I actually ended up liking it. I haven’t seen any work like this stuff I made for primo… but if you see some please let me know! Id, like to meet whosever brain, works like that 🙂
How else do you get creative outside of ceramics? What do you focus on?
Well, aside from photography, I enjoy writing, making videos, I make clothes and magazines and I’m pretty into tattooing 🙂 I guess you could say my focus is a bit schizophrenic.
Do you smoke weed? If so, what’s your favorite strain?
Yup. Congo 100%
Do you see a shift in weed culture with the legalization of it? Has it had any effect on the world of fine arts?
Honestly, it’s still pretty fresh off the legalization tip, but weed regulations seem stricter than ever. My parents generation seems pretty pumped that they can finally indulge. I haven’t seen much of an effect on the art world yet… but the art world LOVES money and weed makes BANK… I don’t think it will be too long until weed tycoons are the newest, most sought after art patrons.
Who are you most inspired by in the world of art (any niche)?
Photography is still my number 1… with oil painting and sculpture running a close second. The work of Ralph Eugene Meatyard, Ed van der Elsken, Larry Sultan, and Bill Henson would be four of my most tried and true inspirations.
What advice would you give to someone trying to get their art into the world?
Just keep making shit alllllll the time. It will stick sooner or later.
