Jonathan Yamakami
Ceramicist
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Where the clay leads
- Jonathan creates tactile and organic ceramic forms
- He left a career in graphic design to pursue craft
- His practice values the power of instinct and the feel of clay
Jonathan Yamakami’s path to ceramics was the product of serendipity. When he moved to Eugene, Oregon with his partner, he was seeking a way to get to know the community better. Previously a graphic designer who designed book covers, Jonathan signed up for an introductory course in ceramics at the craft centre at the University of Oregon. He quickly found that the feel of the clay and the problem-solving that comes with manipulating, glazing and firing ceramics resonated. Jonathan now focuses on pinching and coiling, creating works that enclose, cup, mould or embrace empty spaces. His organic forms and vessels draw inspiration from nature, especially sea creatures and botanical life. “I like to keep an open mind and I enjoy the feeling that the material wants to guide you in a certain direction as you work with it,” Johnathan says.
INTERVIEW
In 2017, I had been working as a graphic designer for over a decade, staring at computer screens all day. Clay felt like the complete opposite. I could create a tangible object with my hands. For that hour or so when I was at the ceramics studio, I did not have to deal with clients or deadlines.
I often do not have a very clear idea in mind before beginning a piece, whether I am shaping a pinch pot or hollowing out a solid block of clay. For the former, I have to consider how much volume I am working with. Likewise, if I plan to use certain glaze or underglaze, I need to choose clay bodies that will yield the right results.
I find beginnings very challenging, but as things progress, there is a moment in which something starts to emerge. It feels like an alignment, and I find that clarity very satisfying. It does not mean everything is figured out, but it means I have found a path.
I take workshops whenever I can. There is always something interesting to learn from other makers that I can apply to my own practice in my own way.
Jonathan Yamakami
Ceramicist
Los Angeles, CA, USA
ADDRESS
Address upon request, Los Angeles, CA, USA
AVAILABILITY
By appointment only
LANGUAGES
English, French, Portuguese
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