Sue Levin Art

I began taking ceramics classes at Studio One in Oakland, around ten years ago. With no background in art I knew nothing. Still, it didn’t take me long to realize a few things: 1. I wasn’t all that interested in throwing, 2. I was mesmerized by the limitlessness of clay and 3. I loved the community of people. I experimented with techniques taught in class. But quickly found myself  veering towards intense, years’ long personal and specific obsessions. Pinch pots with goofy faces, salt and pepper creatures. Feet. Dogs, cats and elephants. Dinosaurs. Farm animals. And pencils.

Whatever I’m making, it’s always an exploration—of voice, of craft, of materials. The most fun of all though is to see not what emerges but who—the soul of the piece. The tilt of an ear, the size of a pupil, the shape and placement of a tooth—it’s always a blend of my intentions’ and the universe’s—a dance between control and letting go.

Functionality has also always intrigued me. Sometimes the work is purely sculptural, other times I like the pieces to function as shakers, mugs, candlestick holders or even bottle stoppers.

I create in my home studio in Oakland but enjoy working as a tech at The Potters Studio in Berkeley. It’s a great way to stay connected the community of staff, members and students.

Thank you for visiting and feel free to reach out!