Today we’d like to introduce you to John Vela.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
As the son of a chemical engineer, I was groomed to enjoy science and math from an early age. During high school, I explored Houston’s art and music scene. While at college at UT studying Art History I changed my focus to ceramics which blended arts and science beautifully. I gathered information about glazes, kiln building, and clay formulation.
After college, I worked at Austin’s clay store and developed a deeper understanding of the ceramic process, equipment, materials, and the ceramic community. It was at this time I also co-founded the Texas Clay Arts Association, a non-profit (501c (3)), dedicated to connecting ceramic artists in Texas through social media and an annual member’s show.
I moved on to studio production at Herron Clayworks and Sunset Canyon Pottery. Here I would master the information I had gathered through the years to become a production potter. Throwing on the potter’s wheel, kiln loading, glazing, packing/shipping, and managing a studio.
Please tell us about your art.
We’ve been making stoneware dinnerware and homeware since 1978 (originally Clarksville Pottery). All of our items are handmade on the pottery wheel or hand built. Unique glazing with original glazes and glaze patterning. We intend to add color and beauty to everyday life through our pottery. Dishes that can be used daily for morning coffee, an afternoon snack, or late-night munchies. Our inspiration comes from the natural world, landscapes, and celestial displays. We hope our customers take time to hold and look deeply at our pieces and enjoy the beauty and charm of a handmade piece of art. Microwave and dishwasher safe, stoneware ideal for the kitchen and home.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
For new and upcoming artists I believe it is important to build your brand or line slowly, piece by piece. This allows time for correction and introspection that allows improvement over time. Studio space is expensive, prepare yourself with knowledge in remodeling, plumbing, electricity, drywall, etc.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
We are represented in galleries nationwide and on our website, sunsetcanyonpottery.com. Follow us on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram sites with images, videos, and updates.
https://facebook.com/SunsetCanyonPottery/
Tweets by SC_Pottery
https://www.instagram.com/sunsetcanyonpottery/
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sunsetcanyonpottery.com
- Phone: 7372098888
- Email: contact@sunsetcanyonpottery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunsetcanyonpottery/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/SunsetCanyonPottery/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/SC_Pottery
Image Credit:
Jolene Settle Photography
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