Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Hallmark.
Nancy, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I went to college planning to study painting and illustration. For my work/study assignment I was assigned to work for the pottery teacher. And since I was mixing glaze and loading the kilns I decided to learn how to make pottery. I fell in love with the process and 45 years later I still love making pottery. I’ve tried many kinds of pottery from earthenware, mid-range, stoneware and porcelain. I’m currently working with a red earthenware clay and using a traditional majolica glaze. The glaze gives me a beautiful creamy “canvas” to hand paint whimsical animals, designs and patterns on the surface. I find my inspiration for my designs from my pets, nature, children’s stories and my variation of traditional patterns.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I make mostly functional pottery, bowls, mugs, plates and covered jars. I love that my wares can be used and enjoyed every day while also feeling like a piece of art. People often see the animals and say” I have a cat just like that” or “I love chickens.” I see people connecting to their pets, nature, stories they learned as children and the beauty and symmetry of a pattern or design. I think my pottery touches the heart of people who see it.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
Taking a class or teaching a class is a good way to connect with other artists. Even if you feel accomplished in your field, there is always something new to learn or a different way to think about what you’re doing.
I belong to a group of fellow clay artist that meet monthly. There is always a guest artist who talks and demos some aspect of their work or experience working in the clay community. And announcements about current events involving clay.
I volunteer and make bowls for the Empty Bowl project (https://www.austinemptybowl.org). It’s a great way to give back to the community through my art and meet fellow clay artists.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I have a website: hallmarkpottery.com
Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NancyHallmarkPottery
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HallmarkPottery
I also have work on consignment in Austin TX at Austin Pottery and Parts and Labour. I show my work at various art shows and sales throughout the year.
Contact Info:
- Website: hallmarkpottery.com
- Phone: 512 297-6379
- Email: nhallmark@hotmail.com
- Instagram: hallmarkpottery
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HallmarkPottery
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/NancyHallmarkPottery
Image Credit:
Nancy Hallmark
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