Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany Fahres.
Hi Brittany, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Pursuing an artistic career was fueled by my artistic and supportive mother; along with my desire to create dimensional works of art. I started in teaching, at the University of Wisconsin – Madison (go Badgers!) where my heart lies in the Art Education department. I taught Ceramics in Madison public schools for 2 years before moving to Houston and pursuing graphic design. As I made the transition, I found that sitting at a computer all day drained my passion for life, and felt a hole where I’d once worked with my hands each hour of the day. The physicality ceramics requires has always drawn me in; from the muculent clay, to the ‘push and pull’ energy of the form on the wheel. I value each opportunity I have gained through pursuing an artistic pathway, having started in Art Education, branching out to graphic design, and eventually growing a ceramic studio of my own. It is my belief that art forms tend to meld into one another, and that an eye for design can be used in many creative careers – my journey is just one example.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I, like most other artists, have had to work my way up from nothing but skill and experience. I was renting a wheel at a local studio space, eventually making enough from sales to purchase my own wheel, working out of a garage, and finally making connections/finding my own studio space. Seeing my passion grow into a profitable business has fueled the laborious – but fulfilling – nature of running a ceramic studio.
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?
Moonshine Design is an exploration in dimension and color. While experimenting with clay bodies, glaze finishes, and durable, functional forms; I focus mainly on the consumer and their collection of ceramic pieces. The Moonshine ceramic collector has a passion for design, curation, and making the small moments, such as pouring coffee and drinking tea, important rituals of everyday life. I’ve found a niche in ceremonial matcha, creating spouted chawans (Japanese bowls) used in traditional tea ceremonies. My collectors love the ritualistic nature of making tea in the morning while setting intentions for the day.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memories are with my family, and specifically my late mother – also an artist. She played a large part in retirement communities as an artistic program director, introducing art and activities to the elderly. At home, we would take time to paint together on our carpeted apartment living room floors. Quality time spent creating art is an invaluable form of affection, and one that not many have the chance to share with others.
Contact Info:
- Email: shopmoonshinedesign@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MoonshineDesignShop
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moonshinedesign_tx/?hl=en
Image Credits
Jefferson Chan
