lack of influence or guidance has made my journey a bit longer and more challenging, but it has also enabled me to discover my own voice in ceramics.
and I am also involved with the PEI Craft Council, and exclusively at Maud Home Interiors. Soon, I will be showcasing my work in my own charming sunroom gallery at my home studio.
1. When did you open the business JW Ceramics? I launched my business in the autumn of 2021. 2. When you were growing up did you always feel drawn to create? Since I can recall, I have always envisioned myself as an “artist,” even though I was unsure of what that truly entailed at the time. 3. Tell me a bit about the clay you use? When I began my journey in ceramics, purchasing commercially made clay was beyond my budget. Instead, I embarked on a quest across the Island to find a sustainable source of wild clay for my practice.
6. Can you explain briefly the process of making a piece? I typically start with a sketch or concept, followed by deciding on the method of formation—be it hand- built, wheel-thrown, or cast. Ceramics usually undergo two firings: a bisque firing and a glaze firing, each lasting between five to ten hours. Occasionally, I may fire the work a third or fourth time if I feel the result isn't satisfactory.
10. Have you always been creative?
14. Do you offer custom commissions?
From a young age, I recognized my creative spirit; at just five years old, I confidently told my teacher that I would grow up to be an artist. Although I didn't fully grasp the meaning of that aspiration back then, reflecting on the past 25 years, it’s clear that creativity has been my guiding force through life's journey.
It’s a yes and no situation; it really depends on the commission. 15.Do you offer classes or workshops? I plan to host a series of intimate workshops and classes in my sunroom gallery beginning in late 2025 or 2026. 16. Where would you like to see yourself in five years? In the next five years, I envision myself as a full- time ceramist, leading workshops, showcasing my work in museum exhibitions, and travelling for artist residencies. I aim to broaden my creative perspective on life and share it with others. 17. Anything you would like to add? Success is often accompanied by failure, so embrace the opportunity to explore new avenues in life. I never imagined I would step away from the kitchen, but through self-belief and forging connections in my craft, I am creating a new life for myself—one pot at a time.
7. What types of pieces do you make?
I primarily design tableware and sculptural works, but lately, I've gained recognition for crafting these charming small ceramic houses. These delightful structures embody my life in the Maritimes and resonate with many people for their own personal reasons. 8. Your ceramics are so unique – how do you decide what to create?
11. Do you have any other creative outlets?
I explore a variety of creative outlets, including knitting,
Since that time, I have created my own glazes
sewing, needle felting, photography, painting,
using the Island's clay and even incorporated it as a clay body for certain pieces. 4. How did you get started creating ceramics? After losing my job in the food service industry due to the pandemic, I started creating ceramics. Rather than continuing to craft food, I considered making tableware instead, and I couldn’t have achieved this without the support of Innovation PEI.
baking, and even gardening. I enjoy experimenting with these different mediums, as each one holds a unique significance in shaping who I am and, consequently, influencing my work.
This aspect is quite challenging. I often find
12. Who is your biggest supporter?
myself torn between various expectations— what others want from me, what pays
My community is my biggest supporter: from my husband, my parents, my grandmother, my neighbours, my fellow artisans, and my animals. Each of them offers support in various ways, all of which contribute to my ability to create ceramics.
the bills, my personal aspirations, and the
creations my hands choose to bring to life. It’s a delicate balancing act between my inner child and the societal pressures I face. 9. Tell me about your background – do you have any formal training in ceramics? I don't have any formal training in ceramics; rather, I am a self-taught artist. The
5. What inspires you?
Anyone you ask will tell you that I draw inspiration from rocks! I feel a profound connection to their texture, colour, and formation. However, my inspiration also comes from metal, wood, fabric, and the stories woven into history.
13. Where can people buy your pieces?
I participate in the Atlantic Maker Market twice a year,
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