My Journey into Ceramic Arts

The Beginning: Winter 2022

My journey into ceramic arts began in the winter of 2022. Through a friend’s recommendation, I discovered LEXarts in Lexington, where I had the privilege of studying with Marc Mancuso. Over the course of three sessions spanning approximately 9 months, I immersed myself in learning wheel throwing techniques.

Those initial months were transformative. The feel of clay spinning beneath my hands, the meditative rhythm of the wheel, and the satisfaction of creating functional forms from raw earth opened up an entirely new creative dimension for me.

Summer 2023: First Journey to Jingdezhen

In the summer of 2023, I traveled to Jingdezhen, China – often called the “Porcelain Capital” – for an intensive 15-day study program. This experience was profound, connecting me with centuries of ceramic tradition and exposing me to techniques and perspectives that dramatically expanded my understanding of the craft.

Jingdezhen’s rich ceramic heritage, with its ancient kilns and master craftspeople, provided invaluable insights into both traditional and contemporary ceramic practices.

Expanding Techniques: Hand Building

Starting in September 2023, I began a new chapter in my ceramic education at the Munroe Center for Arts, studying hand-building techniques with Judith Cooper. This shift from wheel work to hand building has opened up new possibilities for sculptural expression and has been an ongoing journey of discovery.

The contrast between wheel throwing and hand building has enriched my practice, allowing me to explore different approaches to form and texture.

Return to Jingdezhen: Summer 2024

In the summer of 2024, I returned to Jingdezhen for another 10-day intensive study. This second visit allowed me to deepen my understanding and refine techniques learned during my first trip, while also exploring new aspects of ceramic art.

Continuing Evolution

My ceramic practice continues to evolve, informed by both Eastern and Western traditions. The combination of technical training in Massachusetts and cultural immersion in China’s ceramic capital has created a unique foundation for my artistic expression.

Each piece I create carries traces of this journey – from the disciplined wheel work learned with Marc Mancuso, to the ancient wisdom of Jingdezhen, to the sculptural freedom discovered through Judith Cooper’s hand-building instruction.