Van

 

    My path to ceramics has been shaped by a life lived across disciplines, cultures, and landscapes. Before dedicating myself fully to art, I worked in education and technology, experiences that cultivated both analytical thinking and a deep appreciation for learning, experimentation, and human connection. Having lived in Brooklyn, Seoul, Paris, California, and Florida, I have been influenced by the unique rhythms, histories, and visual languages of each place.

Art has been a constant throughout my life. Drawing, watercolor painting, and time spent outdoors have profoundly informed my creative practice. The oceans, forests, skies, mountains, and deserts that I have explored continue to inspire the forms, colors, and surfaces of my work. I am particularly drawn to the ways natural forces shape the landscape over time—through erosion, growth, weather, and transformation.

Working primarily in high-fire ceramics, I use traditional techniques and gas kiln firing to create pieces that honor both craft and material. My practice is deeply rooted in process, with a particular focus on glaze chemistry and clay body development. I am fascinated by the interaction of earth, minerals, heat, and atmosphere, and I view the kiln as an active collaborator in the making of each piece.

The balance between technical precision and unpredictability lies at the heart of my work. Years of experimentation with clay and glaze formulations have allowed me to develop surfaces that evoke natural textures, shifting light, and the subtle complexity found in the environment. Through ceramics, I seek to create objects that embody a sense of place, invite contemplation, and celebrate the enduring relationship between nature, material, and human creativity. Lastly, I am honored to have received numerous awards and recognition across the nation.