Design Inspirations:
Tonalá Pottery: The Heart of Mexican Folk Tradition
Larry Allen: Master Potter from Birmingham, Alabama
 
Though these influences are worlds apart, they share a common spirit that resonates deeply with Jen:
Clay as a design element, not just a canvas
Surface decoration that expresses interconnectedness between elements of humanity and nature
Lines, dots, and patterns that bring cohesion and flow
Attention to form, honoring how shape and surface compliment one another
In her own studio practice, she has found joy in creating functional pieces - mugs, bowls, ring dishes, spoon rests - the kinds of objects that quietly enrich everyday life. She wants her work to be approachable and inviting pieces that people reach for without hesitation. Until now, she has accomplished much of that through the use of texture and rich colors.
 
But for this October Mug of the Month, she set out to go deeper. Her goal is to be more purposeful and deliberate with surface design by drawing inspiration from the craftsmanship of Larry Allen and the Tonalá artists.  Hoping to move beyond texture toward carving and cohesive storytelling in clay is a step toward uniting what is valued most: teaching, connection, and creativity brought together in one small, thoughtful vessel.