Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Heinesen.
Hi Michelle, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey in clay began at 15 years old in Singapore, where I apprenticed under my ceramics mentor then worked for their art education company for many years, even throughout art school and after.
Fast forward, I moved to Houston in 2013 & currently own and manage a community clay studio in 2nd Ward Houston called POTCLUB, where classes, workshops, private events, firing services and memberships are offered.
Not only is it the space that I create my own work in but I am able to share knowledge and create community here, hopefully providing meaningful third space for folx utilizing clay as the catalyst. My favourite event that we host is Queer Clay, which is a monthly community inclusive event that is also sliding-scale.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Of course it is expected that life’s journey offers many bumps in the road, as most have experienced this, but I believe that the obstacles that have come my way are meant to strengthen my resolve, ultimately.
Doing what I do requires passion, dedication, motivation, physically challenging labour and a single-minded focus & drive. It’s certainly not for the faint hearted or for someone that is motivated by the bottom line only.
Maintaining my principals & artistic practice while operating within the capitalistic framework is where I find I am the most challenged. Safe spaces for creativity and self expression are not always valued in modern society, proof of this is clearly reflected on the abilities of folx to survive as full-time as artists without the financial backing of a wealthy family.
Still, it’s important to maintain a positive outlook even if it often feels like salmon swimming upstream !
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I mainly specialize in sculpture – my current practice utilizes mostly ceramics and found objects, as well as metal, glass and wood.
In terms of subject matter I’m interested in intersectionality, the immigrant experience as well as the mass cognitive dissonance we are experiencing as a society currently.
Maintaining POTCLUB takes the lion’s share of my working hours, and I’m glad to be able to be an artist’s resource to the area that I live in.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I find that talking to my neighbours, in-person, as well as with friends & family overseas helps keeps the spirits up!
Life has a way of giving you signs and messages that you are on the right path when you least expect it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.potclubtx.com
- Instagram: @michellehansdottir
