For founder Josh Herman, ceramics has long been more than a medium, it's a way to explore ideas, express ourselves, grow through making and connecting both through and connection. In this series, we introduce you to one member’s personal story, process, and inspirations so we can all learn from each other and deepen our understanding of not only our clay practice but to others at The Tao of Clay and beyond.  Because when we share our craft, we build more than beautiful forms, we build community.

Meet this month's featured artist: a designer whose love of color and composition has found a new home in clay. After returning to ceramics decades after first touching it, they've quickly developed a practice rooted in curiosity, experimentation, and the joy of creating objects meant to be used every day.

Member: Jess Hicks

 

What first drew you towards working with clay? 

I am a designer by trade, so because all of my work is primarily on a screen, so I think I really enjoy having tangible pieces that I’ve created. It’s also cool to think of the clay as a canvas or artboard… and to work with colors and design like I would in my everyday work.

How long have you been working with ceramics, and what’s changed most in your practice since you started? 

I went to a camp in high school that focused a lot on ceramics and then didn’t touch it again until I was 41. Since that class, I’ve been at it for a little over a year. It’s been great to spend a lot of time really testing out new(to me) techniques, shapes, and glaze combos. 

 

What did you do before clay (or alongside it)?

I’m the operations manager, designer and on-site event coordinator for a brewery. I’ve always been in the creative realm, whether I was doing branding for new businesses or graphic design for local bars and restaurants. But I will say, clay has sucked up every available waking moment since last year, and I love it. 

What are you currently working on right now?

Building out a studio at home! I’m super excited to have a space to make more glazes, make tiles, and drawer pulls.

Is there something you’re trying to get better at right now?

Really trying to hone in on making a more cohesive body of work, while also exploring all the millions of things I want to try. 

What’s a technique or style you’re currently obsessed with?

I’ve always been obsessed with glaze and layering different combos.

 

Learn How To Test and Make Glazes at Tao of Clay

 

Where are you finding inspiration lately? (books, places, people, music, etc.)

Retro fabrics, vintage ceramics, and colors in nature.

Do you have a creative ritual or routine?

No ritual, really. Just love the aspect of ceramics that allows me to slowdown. 

Quick Fire Questions! 

Coffee, tea or ??? in the studio?

Mineragua and one of the new La Colombe coffee cans. 

Favorite tool you can’t live without?

Can’t leave home without my rounded rubber rib, but I will always(accidentally) leave home without my wire cutter.

Favorite song, podcast or ?? To listen while in the studio? 

I Love a little Steely Dan, Alton Ellis, or Tribe.  

One word that describes your current work:

A.D.D.  

What are you excited to explore next?

Focusing on some more organic pieces, and planning events/markets with friends!

 

From building a home studio to chasing the perfect glaze combination, it's clear this is only the beginning of an exciting creative journey. We can't wait to see where the next year of making takes Jess and we're grateful to have her as part of the Tao of Clay community.

 

Become A Tao of Clay Member