My work explores the intersection of design, art, and fine craft through functional pottery. I seek to elevate these objects by balancing form and decoration with a focus on design. Of particular interest to me are geometry, line, pattern, repetition, and color. Architecture, botanicals, and graphic patterns often influence my work. I am a highly detail-oriented person, for this reason, my medium of choice is porcelain. The clean smooth surface gives me a perfect canvas for the delicate details I employ. Incised lines create patterns create delicate patterns and slip trailed dots add a raised tactile quality. Stamped and carved details allow for glazes to pool and run creating movement. Soft colors and contrasting matte and shiny glaze surfaces are common in my work. My pots are approached individually with variations on the surface design themes making each one a unique piece of art. Gold luster often adorns the objects as a way to elevate them from every day to exquisite.

Jess’s work has been published in Pottery Making Illustrated and Ceramics Monthly and she has shown her work in both juried and national invitational ceramic exhibitions. Jess lives in Port Chester, NY with her husband Pete.

Artist Statement

These colorful bud vases were an exploration of contrast and surface. I was exploring contrast in color, but also difference in surface (matte vs. shine). I find these varied qualities can yield a playful and energetic result that I hope brings a smile.