My Journey as a Visual Designer and Ceramic Artist

I'm a Visual Designer and Ceramic Artist based in Rochester, MN. My path in the arts began with a passion for illustration, leading me to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration and Ceramics from Minnesota State University Moorhead in 2017. As my interest shifted to ceramics, I launched my own studio, SRJ Ceramics, where I create work inspired by nature's beauty. In 2023, I expanded my skill set with a UX/UI Design Certificate from the University of Minnesota. My work has been featured in publications and exhibitions across the U.S., and in 2022, I was honored with the SEMAC Emerging Artist Grant. SRJ Ceramics remains a space where I blend my love of design and ceramics, crafting pieces that are both functional and inspiring.

Ceramic Artist Statement

My work as a ceramic artist is inspired by a deep-rooted connection to both my family’s tradition of craftsmanship and my lifelong fascination with the natural world. Growing up surrounded by the beauty of earth sciences—Geology and Astronomy—I developed a curiosity about the landscapes, rocks, and celestial bodies that shape our environment. This curiosity now informs my art, as I explore the intersection of sky and earth through clay.

Creating with my hands is not just a process; it is a journey of reflection, balance, and tranquility. Through techniques like wheel throwing, carving, and mixed media, I craft vessels that reflect the timeless relationship between humanity and nature. Each piece serves as a personal interpretation of the world around me, a human-made representation of the earth and sky, honoring the delicate beauty of our planet.