Our makers never fail to motivate us, encourage our creativity, and fill us with inspiration. So, when a new design enters our assortment, we’re always excited to learn more about the people behind the product.
What gets an artist going and keeps them creating is certainly worth sharing, and every great connection starts with a simple introduction. Meet Kristen Juen, the artist behind our new Mauna Planter and Dish and Valley Hanging Planter.
When did you know you wanted to be an artisan?
I have always had a passion for creativity. When I moved to Austin recently it felt like the right time and place to pursue a path as a maker.
What has been the most exciting thing about becoming a professional artisan?
Sharing my joy and inspiration for creating with others!
What does your typical day in the studio look like?
I like to stay busy in the studio. I typically continue on a previous day’s work, while also starting something new so I always have something going. You will find me rolling out slabs, assembling new work, trimming, smoothing, and glazing. I also currently work out of a shared studio, so I learn a lot and gain inspiration from being around other creatives.
Is there a trinket, talisman, or other inspirational object you keep near? If so, what is it and what does it mean to you?
I do not have a specific trinket, but I gain so much inspiration from the outdoors. Getting out of the studio occasionally to take in the beauty, peace, and surprises that can be discovered in nature, is so important to the development of my creativity and ceramic wares.
Imagine you just showed your work to a kindergartner for the first time. What do you think they would say?
A kindergartner recently looked up at me during an art show in amazement and said, “Did you make all this?”
What quote or mantrakeeps you motivated?
It can be scary to push myself to try new creative ideas that might completely fail. However, I recognize that my most exciting creations often evolve from these experiments. I am inspired and motivated to keep going by the Joseph Chilton Pearce quote, “To live a creative life, we must lose our fear of being wrong.”
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