In every issue, we check in with people who are doing what they love to find out about their projects. In Issue 30, we talk to Jaclyn Souza, who creates her own functional pottery.
What kind of work do you do?
“I make a collection of functional pottery that is rooted in nature: hand-carved mugs, textured tableware and natural coconut wax candles. All of the pieces are made by me from start to finish.”
How did you start with ceramics?
“I touched clay for the first time just two years ago at a local pottery studio. It
was an instant connection! Within months, I purchased the necessary studio equipment to create as often as possible. A year later, I quit my full-time job to pursue this burning passion. I did a short class at a local pottery studio, but I consider myself a self-taught ceramicist as I work alone in my home studio.”
What kind of materials do you use?
“My Raku Collection requires more materials than just clay and glaze. I forage pine needles, horsehair and feathers to use while firing the pieces. This technique requires a lot more hands-on action during the firing process, as I am pulling pieces out of the kiln while they are anywhere from 1,000ºF-1,600ºF.”
- Read the full interview with Jaclyn in Issue 30.
- Find more about Jaclyn’s pottery on her website.
Text Jeanette Jonker Photography Uzumaticeramics.com
