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 Alison Evans, the artist behind our new Oyster Porcelain Dishware Collection.
When did you know you wanted to be an artist?
When I was 14, I took a computer programing class and a pottery class (among other classes) and realized that sitting in front of computer was no fun. I wanted to have a job that was physically demanding and creative. At that time, I thought to myself – maybe I should become a potter?
What was the most exciting thing about becoming a professional artist?
I’ve always been very goal-oriented, so to make a living doing what I love and being able to check that off of my list in my 20s was a big accomplishment.
What does your typical day in the studio look like?
Check the kilns to make sure they fired properly, roll out slabs of clay, talk to my incredible team about what is most pressing to work on, answer phone calls from customers, greet and speak with customers that come into our store/studio, answer emails while I eat lunch, load a kiln, sand down dry pots to get them ready for their first firing….
Is there a trinket, talisman, or other inspirational object you keep near? If so, what is it?
Yes, in Yarmouth we have a sculpture that my husband made that we keep in the kiln room for good luck, and a headless Santa as our kiln god. In Boothbay, we have a horseshoe that hangs above the kiln room door to bring us good luck.
Imagine you just showed your work to a kindergartner for the first time. What do you think they would say?
I actually have a little guest book that my customers can sign to hear about new pieces and other news from my ceramics company. A little girl once wrote to us saying “I like how it look not normal but in a good way.” She was probably older than a kindergartner if she could write. I absolutely love that message. Adorable.
What quote or mantra keeps you motivated?
“Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” -Ben Franklin (via my dad, Chet Evans)
“Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.” -Thomas Edison
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