by Megan Koch
Welcome to our next #meetourmember duo.
Jean and Nancy have been friends since they met on the golf course. They both were drawn to pottery when they visited art fairs and first got connected with Space Studios in Midland. Residing in Bay City, they wanted to find a studio close to home and found Studio 23 online. Now they have been creating with us since for ten years!
Inspiration for their functional art is found all around.
First you start with a brick of clay and then create something functional that people can use. This is a reason why they love participating in local art fairs and sharing the story of Studio 23.
Nature in the different seasons, wallpaper, placemats, and craft stores, they can find texture in many places. Just look around and you could find items that they can use for their artwork. Both combine different textures to make their pieces and multiple.
My favorite question is, What advice would you give to someone wanting to get involved with art?
Jean says “Go for it!”. You do not need experience to start a class, just experience the process and learn. She says it is very relaxing and you meet so many people from all walks of life.
Nancy spoke about how eager everyone is to share. Classmates share different techniques and glaze combinations and help inspire you to keep creating. “There is so much talent here”, Nancy says, even after ten years she is still learning.
We have great instructors here at Studio 23 that are happy to help you create.
I added an extra question about what their favorite thing is to make?
Nancy has recently started making succulent planters. They make really great gifts and she states that succulents are kinda hard to kill. I had to disagree and tell her about my bad luck with plants… Although I agree that succulents are wonderful to have in your home! I just need to work on my green thumb.
Jean enjoys making bowls and vases. She does love trying new things with glazing and textures. Her preference is hand building. Jean is always coming up with a new glaze to try and it is so fun to see her new pieces!
There are so many opportunities to create here at Studio 23. If you are interested in joining Jean & Nancy, the next clay session begins in a few weeks. Check out our education tab on our website for all of our offerings.
