Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Weiner.
Hi Susan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I came to pottery midlife through a community studio. I fell in love immediately. My traditional career was in engineering and construction inspections. Clay was so different. Within a short time, I dreamed of making pots all day and leaving behind the hard hat, work boots & laptop.
I was diagnosed with a rare form of appendix cancer one month prior to my 40th birthday. I beat cancer but it left me with lifelong digestive issues. My condition is aggravated by stress and certain foods. As a result, as I reached my 50s, I was very unhealthy and unhappy. I felt hopeless & helpless, something needed to give. I stopped working, gave up my income, and turned my life around.
Pottery became my everyday job. It healed me. The meditative state forced me to focus between my two hands. It taught me to live in the moment, to focus without a deadline, to move according to my schedule, and desire to create pieces that interested me. I believe it was the first time in my life where I could work at something I enjoyed.
As I developed my skills, I took workshops & attended conferences in Oregon, Alabama, Pennsylvania & Ohio in pursuit of all things clay. I found my people, my tribe, my family of choice. I felt more included and visible than I had in 30 years of my profession.
I have enjoyed sharing my work online thru Etsy and now through my own website. After covid, I focused more on local events where I have been able to meet other makers and people who enjoy all things handmade and local. I will continue to make as long as I am able and will also continue to share my pots and the joy they bring to those near and far.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
No way! Giving up what I was “supposed to do” and embracing what I love took several years to take the leap. Also, everything small business is not easy. You have to wear all the hats, marketing, accountant, photographer, materials procurer, creator, shipper, and anything else involved. Reaching people who are not only interested but want to buy is not something my background prepared me for.
Have you heard of imposter syndrome? Well, it’s real, and it happens to the best of us. Maybe my pots aren’t good enough; how can I compete with artists that have an MFA or even a BFA? Who is going to want what I make? It’s all real.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am studio potter, which means I make small batch one-off work. Each piece is individual, and no two are exactly alike. I make mostly functional stoneware, mugs, cups, plates, and other serving ware. I also enjoy making nature-inspired art pieces, wall art, chimes, bells & leaf-formed platters.
I am most proud of my glazing skills! I have spent years working on glaze combos that give the look of flowing colors, depth of field that catches the eye. The contrast of smooth shiny glass-like finishes to the bare clay body makes pottery tactile and visual. Much of my work will have sections of bare clay where you can feel the earthiness of the clay. I feel this sets me apart from other potters as I pursue colors outside the traditional on forms that are timeless.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I absolutely do!
My neighbor Jane who convinced me to attend my first pottery class.
The several teachers at the community studio I attended and specifically my teacher Brooke who has become a dear friend who taught me for several years then told me I graduated and should move on from the community forum and work in my own studio.
The local Rochester women-owned business community who has been there to offer help, share issues and let you know you are not alone in this adventure
And my husband, Steven, he has always been my rock, supporting me in whatever I decide, working with me to help fulfill my visions, listening, and never telling me I can’t do something.
I have been blessed
Pricing:
- Mugs & cups $35 to $50
- Dinnerware plates & bowls $25 to $55
- Serving Platters $40 to $74
- Large statement bowls $100 to $250
- Garden-themed worked $40 to $125
Contact Info:
- Website: https://susanweinerceramics.com/
- Instagram: @susanweinerceramics
- Facebook: @susanweinerceramics
Image Credits
Susan Weiner
